Parents of adult children with autism: hopes & dreams for late life & aging

Abstract

The number of adults with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is rapidly increasing. This population is expected to continue to expand as 1:54 children in the US have an ASD. Those with an ASD are vulnerable with multiple co-morbidities and a life expectancy reduction of nearly 20 years compared to non-affected individuals. Thus, later life may be complex, yet little is known about how families envision late life for the adult child with an ASD and how to help individuals and families address health disparities in a way that respects individual and family goals. The aim of this study is to explore the hopes and dreams that parents of adult children with autism have for their child’s aging and late life.