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Services for Adults With Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Systems Perspective
Paul T Shattuck1, Tamara Garfield2, Anne M Roux2
1A.J. Drexel Autism Institute, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA. ptshattuck@drexel.edu.
Current Psychiatry Reports
|February 7, 2020
Summary
Research on services for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is limited and inconsistent. More comprehensive studies are needed to improve care systems for this growing population.
Area of Science:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder Services Research
- Healthcare Systems Analysis
- Adult Neurodevelopmental Services
Background:
- Limited research exists on services for adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Previous reviews highlight a small and variable evidence base.
- The population of autistic adults is growing, necessitating better service research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the topical and methodological aspects of research on services for adults with ASD.
- To review research on employment, community living, and social participation services.
- To compare current research with a 2012 review to identify research gaps and future directions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of original research on services for adults with ASD.
- Published literature from January 2013 to December 2018 was analyzed.
- Research was categorized by service type, research aims, and methodological approaches.
Main Results:
- The evidence base for adult ASD services remains small and highly variable in aims and methods.
- Significant variability exists in sampling frames and participant recruitment.
- Most studies focus on employment, with few examining the overall service ecosystem or using conceptual frameworks.
Conclusions:
- The current research on services for autistic adults is insufficient to significantly inform improvements in care systems.
- Inconsistent quality and small study sizes hinder knowledge accumulation.
- New research directions are needed to address the complex needs of autistic adults.
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