Understanding, Supporting Aging Neurodiverse Population
Over the last few years, there has been a significant increase in adults recognizing that there was always something “different” about them—including our elders. This might manifest in how they interpret the world, experience sensory input, handle group settings, or exhibit particular interests and talents. As this trend continues to emerge, it’s important to examine the experiences of these individuals and how to support them as they uncover this aspect of themselves.
Uncovering What Was Always There
On the outside, undiagnosed neurodivergent adults may have all the hallmarks of neurotypical success, such as flourishing careers and families. However, the internal struggles they face can be challenging. Neurodivergent people often navigate a complex inner world, dealing with feelings of isolation, sensory overload, or the pressure to conform to societal expectations.
Many older adults may not realize that from a young age, they were taught to "mask" their neurodivergent behaviors, changing their behavior in different settings to conform to societal expectations. We all mask to some degree; we don't behave the same way at work as at home. But when we feel required to mask throughout the day and cannot truly be ourselves, it can get exhausting. It can eventually lead to work challenges, relationship issues, and general burnout.
However, with growing awareness of neurodiversity, older adults are more likely to seek a diagnosis later in life. Many are motivated by observing similar behaviors in their children or grandchildren, recognizing patterns they experienced in their own childhoods. And with growing rates of early detection and diagnosis for children, older adults have more opportunities to assess themselves and seek support. This can lead to mixed emotions—while there is relief at finally being understood, recognized, and seen, it can also lead to grief and regret over missed opportunities for assistance earlier in life.
Having had no access to support or intervention, adults diagnosed later in life have often developed their own coping strategies. While these self-taught methods have helped them navigate daily challenges, they can benefit significantly from the tailored support and resources available nowadays. This newfound understanding and assistance can lead to improved quality of life and a stronger sense of self-acceptance.
Advice Going Forward
In a world that divides us by our behaviors, I would encourage recently diagnosed older adults to find a community that supports them in all their strengths, talents, and unique behaviors. It is important to find people who can validate and listen to your needs, especially as you begin to learn and accept those parts of yourself.
It may also be helpful to share your diagnosis with others, as this can lead to the construction of useful accommodations within work settings or personal relationships. You may need more breaks throughout the day or prefer certain times of the day as quiet time. Setting these boundaries for yourself can help you and others around you.
Once you begin to accept and celebrate your own neurodiversity, this can increase awareness and encourage others to recognize their authentic gifts! Remember, autism is not a learning challenge. The experience of neurodivergence encompasses the full breadth of life—and truthfully, it need not be seen as a challenge at all. By embracing neurodiversity—including autism, ADHD, and other related conditions—we unlock the potential for new, beautiful ideas, innovation, and the overall evolution of society.
