Autism, aging, and dementia: A consensus report of the Autism/Dementia Work Group of the 2nd International Summit on Intellectual Disability and Dementia.

Citation

Esralew L, Janicki MP, Jokinen N, Kibsgaard Larsen F, Marsack-Topolewski C, McCallion P, Torres-Mughai D, Palanisamy V, Santos FH, Service KP, Shooshtari S, Thakur A, Tiziano G & Watchman K (2024) Autism, aging, and dementia: A consensus report of the Autism/Dementia Work Group of the 2nd International Summit on Intellectual Disability and Dementia.. International Summit on Intellectual Disability and Dementia. Toronto, Canada. https://www.the-ntg.org/_files/ugd/8c1d0a_35e8665e8ee549beaa536aa7a7eeb4c8.pdf

Abstract
First paragraph: The aim of this summative report is to synthesize what is known about the nature of autism (or ‘autism spectrum disorder’) and inherent later-age neuropathologies, particularly dementia, and to explore potential genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors associated with dementia and their effects on the lifespan and lived experience of older adults with autism. This work stems from discussions undertaken during and after the 2nd International Summit on Intellectual Disabilities and Dementia, held in Toronto, Canada, on October 24-25, 2023. Drawing from the research and clinical literature, the summative report examines what is currently known about the intersection of autism and dementia, and those relevant factors that may contribute to the risk for dementia. The complexities of assessing dementia in older adults with autism, particularly when they have co-occurring intellectual disability are noted, along with the best practices for intervention and support among older adults with autism with conjoint age-associated cognitive impairment.

People

Professor Karen Watchman

Professor, Health Sciences Stirling