The experiences and motor functional abilities of middle and older-aged autistic adults

Abstract

Thesis Abstract This thesis is comprised of three papers aiming to contribute to the gaps in the literature for middle to older-aged autistic adults, a population frequently neglected in research and policy. Paper 1 presents a systematic review focusing on motor functioning and difficulties which have demonstrated links with mental health. Eleven studies were included across five motor functioning domains and presented using a narrative synthesis. The results reveal that middle and older-aged autistic adults generally show greater motor functioning difficulties than their non-autistic counterparts, however some of these difficulties might be amenable to change with appropriate support. Middle and older-aged autistic adults also show greater independence in daily living skills than younger autistic adults and autistic adults up to 52 years show greater postural control compared to younger autistic adults. Motor learning may also be unaffected by increasing age and autism status whilst some forms of ocular motor control may result in fewer errors through aging. However, both middle and older-aged autistic adults cited barriers to accessing physical activity because of their age. The results are limited by the small number of studies found for each domain; it is concluded there is a great need for further research, particularly naturalistic observational and longitudinal studies across all motor domains, examining age-related processes. In paper two empirical research is presented into middle and older autistic adults views of ageing well, ageing support needs and perspectives on ageing support. Thematic analysis of 17 semi-structured interviews identified five themes: health and functioning, change, knowledge and attitudes, social relationships and informal support and seeking formal support. Participants expressed challenges in their autistic ageing journeys and a desire for greater understanding of autistic ageing trajectories both for themselves and from others who provide support. Recommendations for supporting autistic adults to age well included involving autistic people in the design of services, focusing on supporting ageing autistic adults with reablement and proactiveness and introducing specialised advocate/coordinator roles or 'one-stop-shop' hubs. Findings are discussed in line with research and clinical implications. Finally, paper 3 is a critical appraisal of the process of completing papers 1 and 2, exploring the decision-making processes, strengths and weaknesses of the approaches taken and the main researcher's reflections and considerations of the research process.

Date of Award	1 Aug 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	The University of Manchester
Supervisor	Katherine Berry (Supervisor), Emma Gowen (Supervisor) & Laura Brown (Supervisor)