Psychoeducation for older adults with autism

Support With Psychoeducation for Older Adults With Autism Study

Not applicable Interventional Tilburg University · NCT06127472

This study is testing a new program to help older adults with autism better understand their diagnosis and improve their quality of life by training mental health providers and offering support.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment305 (estimated)
Ages55 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorTilburg University Academic / other
Locations11 sites (Apeldoorn, Gelderland and 10 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06127472 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to improve the detection and diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in older adults by training mental health care providers in the Netherlands. It also seeks to provide a psychoeducation program tailored for older adults diagnosed with ASD, which is currently scarce in the region. The program is designed to enhance understanding and acceptance of the diagnosis, improve coping strategies, and ultimately increase the quality of life for participants. The study will compare outcomes between those receiving psychoeducation and those who do not.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 55 and older who have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder or have an uncertain diagnosis.

Not a fit: Patients with acute comorbid mental disorders, major neurocognitive disorders, or substance abuse issues requiring detoxification may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly enhance the quality of life for older adults with autism by providing them with essential knowledge and coping strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While psychoeducation for autism in adults is recognized in guidelines, the specific approach for older adults is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* minimum of 55 years old.
* diagnosed with ASD or a probability diagnosis by a multidisciplinary team according to the Dutch multidisciplinary guideline, as confirmed by the DSM-5 interview for ASD (Spek, n.d.), or the Netherlands Interview for Diagnosis of ASD in adults (NIDA; Vuijk, 2023)

Exclusion Criteria:

* comorbid mental disorder that needs acute treatment and severely interferes with a group treatment (for example psychosis),
* a major neurocognitive disorder (for example dementia or acquired brain injury),
* substance abuse disorder, that requires detoxification, and/or
* an IQ below 70.

Where this trial is running

Apeldoorn, Gelderland and 10 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Autism Spectrum Disorderautismolder adults
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.