Understanding the health needs of older autistic adults
Advancing the System of Care for Autistic Older Adults
This study is looking at the health and mental health needs of autistic adults who are 40 and older, to better understand the challenges they face as they age and to help improve their care and quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10909217 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the health and mental health outcomes of autistic adults aged 40 and older, aiming to create a comprehensive national picture of their service needs. By analyzing national Medicaid and Medicare data, along with conducting surveys and interviews with autistic adults and their caregivers, the study seeks to identify the unique challenges faced by this population as they age. The focus is on understanding the prevalence of neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer's Disease, that may affect older autistic individuals. This research aims to improve care strategies and quality of life for aging autistic adults and their families.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include autistic adults aged 40 and older, as well as their caregivers.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 40 years old or do not have a diagnosis of autism may not receive benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved healthcare strategies and support systems for older autistic adults, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research specifically focused on older autistic adults, studies on aging and autism have shown the need for targeted interventions, indicating that this research could fill a critical gap.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- Drexel University — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shea, Lindsay Lawer — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Shea, Lindsay Lawer
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.