Aging and Cognitive Decline in the Neurodiverse: What We Know and How to Support Healthy Aging
Wednesday, August 21, 2024.
Aging is a journey we all embark on, and while it's a shared experience, the way we navigate it can be different for everyone.
But folks who are neurodiverse—those with conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD), ADHD, or dyslexia—the aging process can bring unique challenges, especially when it comes to cognitive health.
However, understanding these challenges and the research behind them can help us support healthy aging in the neurodiverse community.
The Connection Between Neurodiversity and Cognitive Decline
As we grow older, it's natural for our cognitive abilities to change.
For some neurodiverse folks, these changes might happen a bit differently. For instance, people with ASD might experience a faster decline in certain areas of cognition, such as problem-solving and flexibility in thinking.
A study by Hwang et al. (2020) found that older adults with ASD often face more significant challenges with these skills compared to their neurotypical peers.
This suggests that aging might bring extra hurdles for those on the spectrum, particularly in areas that require quick thinking and adaptability.
Similarly, those with ADHD may notice that tasks requiring sustained attention and memory become more challenging with age.
Research by Biederman et al. (2021) shows that folks with ADHD might experience a sharper decline in attention-related tasks as they age, making everyday activities more difficult. But knowing this allows us to be proactive in finding ways to help maintain cognitive function.
Finding Strengths and Solutions
Despite these challenges, there’s a lot we can do to support cognitive health in the neurodiverse community as they age. Engaging in activities that keep the mind active—like learning new skills, staying socially connected, and exercising—can make a big difference.
Livingston et al. (2020) highlighted the importance of building "cognitive reserve" through lifelong learning and mental stimulation, which can help slow down cognitive decline.
Moreover, interventions tailored specifically for neurodiverse humans show promise.
For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been adapted to fit the unique cognitive profiles of people with ASD and ADHD, helping them manage both cognitive and emotional challenges as they age. These interventions focus on maintaining cognitive health and support emotional well-being, which is closely linked to how we think and function.
The Impact of Other Health Conditions
It's also important to consider other health conditions that might come into play.
The neurodiverse are more likely to experience conditions like anxiety, depression, and epilepsy, which can further complicate the aging process.
For example, anxiety has been shown to speed up cognitive decline in older adults with ADHD, as noted in a study by Simon et al. (2022). Addressing these conditions with a comprehensive care plan is key to supporting overall health and cognitive function.
Looking Ahead: Research and Hope
The field of aging and neurodiversity is still relatively new, but it's growing quickly.
As more neurodiverse folks reach older age, researchers are working hard to understand how we can best support them.
New tools, like neuroimaging and biomarkers, are being explored to identify early signs of cognitive decline. These advancements could lead to earlier interventions and more personalized care, helping neurodiverse individuals enjoy a better quality of life as they age.
Final thoughts
Aging with neurodiversity presents its own set of challenges, but it also offers opportunities for us to learn and grow together.
Let’s stay curious and informed. That way, we can support healthy aging in the neurodiverse community, ensuring everyone can age with dignity and vitality.
Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
REFERENCES:
Biederman, J., Faraone, S. V., Spencer, T., & Mick, E. (2021). Longitudinal course of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. American Journal of Psychiatry, 178(4), 311-320.
Hwang, Y. I., Foley, K. R., & Trollor, J. N. (2020). Aging well on the autism spectrum: The perspectives of autistic adults and carers. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 35(2), 112-121.
Livingston, G., Huntley, J., Sommerlad, A., Ames, D., Ballard, C., Banerjee, S., ... & Cohen-Mansfield, J. (2020). Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission. The Lancet, 396(10248), 413-446.
Simon, N. M., Hofmann, S. G., & Smoller, J. W. (2022). Anxiety in older adults: Towards improved understanding and treatments. Lancet Psychiatry, 9(3), 223-236.
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