Mulero, Jessica and Sanchez, Jasmine and Sever, Ashley (2024) Aging on the spectrum: Perceptions of aging in place in autistic adults and their caregivers. Masters thesis, Stanbridge University.
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Abstract
Introduction: Autism presents individuals with unique challenges that may hinder their capacity to participate in daily tasks. As autistic adults transition into older adulthood, they face new challenges related to aging. Despite an increase in prevalence, there continues to be a lack of research on autism and aging. Our study focuses on the perspectives and lived experiences of autistic adults and autistic adult caregivers regarding their ability to age in place. This qualitative study utilized an online global survey to understand the enablers and barriers of aging in place among our participants. Objective: The purpose of this qualitative research study is to investigate and gain insight into the lived experiences and perceptions of aging in place to identify potential contributors and barriers, among a global sample of autistic adults and autistic adult caregivers. Methods: Participants were recruited through a flyer posted on OT4OT and its sister groups and word of mouth by our primary advisor’s network. Our final sample size consisted of 80 participants: 78 autistic adults (54 formally diagnosed & 24 who self-identify) and 2 caregivers. The gender distribution was 44 females, 7 males (2 reported males from the caregiver sample), 25 non-binary, 2 transgender, and 2 who responded other. Participants participated through an anonymous online survey followed by the analysis of responses to identify recurring themes and patterns. Results: Two primary themes were identified: support networks and symptoms of autism on daily functioning. Within the theme of symptoms of autism on daily functioning, two subthemes were prominent: challenges related to sensory sensitivities and executive dysfunction. Conclusion: Our study suggests that social support networks and symptoms of autism on daily functioning have an impact on the ability to age in place among autistic adults. Our research findings can help the development of occupational therapy interventions and offer important insight to support autistic adults throughout the aging process.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Masters) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | MSOTRS002.04 |
| Subjects: | R Medicine > RC Internal medicine |
| Depositing User: | Kareena Yashko |
| Date Deposited: | 12 Jan 2026 23:45 |
| Last Modified: | 12 Jan 2026 23:45 |
| URI: | http://repository.stanbridge.edu/id/eprint/176 |
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