Maximizing High Functioning Autism Life Span

Unlocking the potential: Understanding high functioning autism life span and overcoming health challenges

Mark Elias

June 24, 2024

August 15, 2024

Understanding Life Expectancy

Factors Affecting Life Span

When it comes to individuals with high functioning autism, understanding the factors that can affect their life span is crucial. Research has shown that there are various factors that can impact the life expectancy of individuals with autism, and it is important to be aware of these factors to maximize their overall well-being and quality of life.

Long-term research indicates that the average life expectancy for individuals with autism is about 39 years, with this population generally succumbing to health complications about 20 years earlier than those without autism. It is important to note that the risk of death due to health issues is highest among low-functioning females with autism spectrum disorder.

Several studies suggest that individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may have an increased risk of mortality compared to the general population. One study conducted in Denmark found that individuals with ASD died at twice the expected rate of the general population. Common causes of death included epilepsy, infectious diseases, and accidents. Another study in the US found that individuals with ASD died at younger ages, approximately 20 years earlier than control decedents, and had higher rates of most health conditions. Common causes of death included respiratory, cardiac, and epileptic events.

Factors such as age, health status, independence in activities of daily living, and impairments in social reciprocity have been identified as significant predictors of mortality in adults with ASD over a 20-year period. Being in fair or poor health at the start of the study period increased the risk of dying over the next 20 years by 46%.

Understanding these factors is crucial for individuals with high functioning autism and their caregivers. By recognizing the potential risks and challenges, appropriate measures can be taken to ensure the well-being and longevity of individuals with autism. Regular medical check-ups, early intervention, and providing support for independent living can all contribute to improving the overall life span of individuals with high functioning autism.

It is important to note that there are disparities in healthcare access for autistic adults. Studies have shown that autistic adults reported lower quality healthcare than non-autistic adults, including poorer access to healthcare and communication, alongside increased anxiety, sensory sensitivity, system-level problems, shutdowns, and meltdowns. These differences existed before and after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Addressing these disparities and ensuring equitable access to healthcare is crucial in maximizing the life span and overall well-being of individuals with high functioning autism.

Health Challenges Faced

Living with high functioning autism comes with its own set of unique challenges, including various health conditions that individuals may face. Understanding these chronic conditions is crucial for maximizing the life span and overall well-being of individuals with high functioning autism.

Chronic Conditions in Autism

Research has shown that autistic individuals are more likely to develop physical and mental health conditions compared to their neurotypical counterparts. These conditions can include Type II diabetes, certain cancers, respiratory conditions, cardiovascular conditions, and more. In fact, estimates suggest that autistic individuals die, on average, 16-38.5 years younger than expected, with the highest risk observed among autistic females and those with intellectual disability.

A study conducted by NCBI confirmed that autistic individuals experience significantly elevated rates of non-communicable conditions across various organ systems. These conditions include gastrointestinal, neurological, endocrine, visual, ear/nose/throat, skin, liver and kidney, and hematological conditions. Autistic individuals also have higher risks of developing gastrointestinal, rheumatological, neurological, and renal/hepatic conditions compared to non-autistic individuals.

The prevalence rates of specific physical health conditions are widespread among autistic individuals, particularly in the neurological and rheumatological domains. Autistic individuals are two to three times more likely to have gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, gastric reflux, GI tract hernias, gallbladder disease, gallstones, chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation, and other related conditions, even after adjusting for various factors like demographics, alcohol use, smoking, BMI, and family history.

These chronic conditions can significantly impact the overall well-being and life expectancy of individuals with high functioning autism. Consequently, it is essential to prioritize regular health screenings, early detection, and appropriate interventions to manage these conditions effectively. By addressing these health challenges, we can empower individuals with high functioning autism to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Predictors of Mortality

Several factors can influence the life expectancy of individuals with high-functioning autism. This section explores two significant predictors of mortality: social skills and communication, and employment status.

Social Skills and Communication

Social skills and effective communication play vital roles in the life span of individuals with high-functioning autism. Difficulties in communication, inappropriate facial expressions, and limited self-sufficiency in daily activities can predict mortality in adults with autism. Cognitive and behavioral impairments, as well as activities of daily living, also contribute to determining life expectancy.

Research suggests that higher IQ, better language skills, and improved social skills are positively correlated with better adaptive functioning and communication in individuals with high-functioning autism. Developing and enhancing these skills can significantly impact their overall well-being and potentially improve their life expectancy.

Impact of Employment Status

Another predictor of mortality in individuals with high-functioning autism is employment status. Unemployment can lead to a lack of routine, decreased social interaction, and increased feelings of isolation, which can further exacerbate the challenges faced by individuals with high-functioning autism.

Providing adequate vocational training and job placement support is critical to improving the life expectancy of individuals with high-functioning autism. By facilitating employment opportunities, individuals with autism can benefit from the structure, social interaction, and sense of purpose that employment provides. It also helps to foster independence and a higher quality of life.

To maximize the life span of individuals with high-functioning autism, it is essential to address social skills and communication difficulties through targeted interventions and therapies. Additionally, providing appropriate vocational training and job placement support can help improve their employment prospects, overall well-being, and life expectancy. By focusing on these predictors of mortality, we can empower individuals with high-functioning autism to lead fulfilling lives.

Improving Quality of Life

In order to maximize the life span and overall well-being of individuals with high functioning autism, early diagnosis and interventions play a crucial role.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is essential for timely intervention. Research has shown that interventions implemented before the age of 4 are associated with significant improvements in various areas of development for children with ASD. Detecting autism at an early stage allows for early access to appropriate interventions, therapies, and support systems. This can help address specific challenges and promote better outcomes in terms of social interaction, communication skills, and adaptive functioning.

Importance of Interventions

Interventions are vital for individuals with high functioning autism to improve their quality of life and enhance their overall functioning. Behavioral interventions aimed at improving self-sufficiency with daily living skills are essential for children, adolescents, and adults with autism. These interventions focus on developing and strengthening skills related to communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, and adaptive behaviors.

Early intervention programs, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), have proven to be effective in supporting individuals with autism. These interventions provide structured and individualized support, helping individuals with high functioning autism develop essential skills and cope with challenges they may encounter in daily life.

Setting high expectations and encouraging participation in early intervention programs are crucial for individuals with high functioning autism. By providing the necessary support and resources, individuals with autism can develop their potential, enhance their independence, and improve their overall well-being.

It is important to note that multiple factors contribute to the variation in life expectancy observed in individuals with high functioning autism, including overall health, social support, and access to appropriate interventions. Therefore, it is essential to create a comprehensive support system that addresses the specific needs of individuals with high functioning autism and ensures access to appropriate interventions throughout their lifespan. By doing so, we can empower individuals with high functioning autism to lead fulfilling lives and maximize their life span.

Disparities in Healthcare Access

Healthcare Challenges for Autistic Adults

Autistic adults face significant challenges when it comes to accessing healthcare, resulting in disparities in healthcare access and quality. Studies have consistently shown that autistic adults receive lower quality healthcare compared to their non-autistic counterparts, with disparities observed across multiple aspects of healthcare provision. These disparities exist both before and after the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, highlighting the persistent nature of the issue.

Some of the healthcare challenges faced by autistic adults include:

Poorer Access to Healthcare: Autistic adults often encounter barriers that hinder their access to healthcare services. These barriers can include difficulties in finding healthcare providers who are knowledgeable about autism, long wait times for appointments, and limited availability of appropriate accommodations.
Communication Difficulties: Communication challenges are common among individuals with autism, and this can impact their interactions with healthcare providers. Autistic adults may struggle to effectively communicate their symptoms, concerns, and medical history, leading to misunderstandings and inadequate care.
Increased Anxiety and Sensory Sensitivity: Autistic individuals often experience heightened anxiety and sensory sensitivity, which can be exacerbated in healthcare settings. Bright lights, loud noises, and unfamiliar environments can contribute to increased distress and make it challenging for autistic adults to engage in healthcare visits.
System-Level Problems: Autistic adults may face systemic issues within healthcare systems, such as limited insurance coverage for autism-related services, unaffordable healthcare costs, and difficulties in navigating complex healthcare systems.

These healthcare challenges can have significant implications for the overall health and well-being of autistic adults. Research has shown that autistic adults have poorer health outcomes, including early mortality, increased rates of psychiatric emergency department utilization, and lower utilization of preventive care visits for cancer screenings. Autistic individuals are also more likely to develop physical and mental health conditions, such as Type II diabetes, certain cancers, respiratory conditions, and cardiovascular conditions. Estimates suggest that autistic individuals die on average 16-38.5 years younger than expected, with the greatest risk observed among autistic females and those with intellectual disability [4].

Addressing the healthcare challenges faced by autistic adults requires increased awareness, improved training for healthcare providers on autism-related healthcare needs, and the implementation of patient-centered approaches. By recognizing and addressing these disparities in healthcare access, we can work towards ensuring that autistic adults receive the high-quality healthcare they deserve, ultimately improving their overall health and well-being.

Co-Occurring Conditions

Individuals with high functioning autism often experience co-occurring conditions, which can have a significant impact on their overall well-being. Nearly three-quarters of autistic children are diagnosed with co-occurring conditions, including intellectual disabilities, sensory processing disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, and gastrointestinal issues, among others. These conditions can influence various aspects of an individual's life, affecting their daily functioning and quality of life.

The presence of co-occurring conditions can lead to additional challenges for individuals with high functioning autism. Each condition may have its own set of symptoms and implications, further complicating the management of autism. For instance, individuals with autism may also meet the criteria for an Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnosis. Approximately 30-80% of children with autism have comorbid ADHD, sharing difficulties related to attention, impulse control, and hyperactivity. However, autism primarily affects social communication and interaction, while ADHD primarily affects attention and hyperactivity [6].

Several studies have highlighted the impact of co-occurring conditions on the well-being of individuals on the autism spectrum. Research has shown that autistic individuals experience a reduced quality of life compared to neurotypical individuals. Autistic females, in particular, are more likely to suffer from psychiatric conditions such as post-traumatic stress syndrome, depression, and eating disorders. They also tend to report gastrointestinal (GI)-related disturbances and chronic pain.

The co-occurring conditions experienced by individuals with high functioning autism can extend beyond mental health issues. Autistic females, compared to non-autistic males, are more likely to have chronic physical health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory disorders, asthma, low blood pressure, and arrhythmias. These chronic physical health conditions can further impact their overall well-being and quality of life.

Understanding and addressing the co-occurring conditions alongside high functioning autism is crucial for improving the overall well-being of individuals on the autism spectrum. Comprehensive and individualized treatment plans that consider the unique needs and challenges associated with each co-occurring condition are essential. By providing appropriate interventions and support, individuals with high functioning autism can experience a better quality of life and maximize their potential.