Aging as an Autistic Person with Prof. Sandra Thom-Jones
Nov 3, 2024
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In this conversation, Professor Sandra Thom-Jones, an autistic author and advocate, shares her insights on aging as an autistic individual. She discusses the often 'invisible' nature of older autistic adults and the unique support they require. Sandra explores how generational differences shape perceptions of autism, the challenges of navigating later life transitions like menopause and retirement, and the need to move beyond neuro-normative expectations about aging. She also offers valuable tips for finding joy during retirement as an autistic person.
Older autistic adults often become invisible to society, facing unique challenges and requiring tailored support to navigate aging.
The late diagnosis of autism in older individuals can provide clarity and validation, empowering them to advocate for their needs effectively.
Societal misconceptions about aging and autism contribute to ageism, highlighting the urgent need for improved awareness and support for this population.
Deep dives
Understanding Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormonal fluctuations in women are common and can be influenced by various factors, including health conditions, life stages, and environmental exposures. Many women experience hormone-related issues, such as PMS symptoms, perimenopausal symptoms, and challenges like poor sleep and bloating. It is suggested that as women age, they need to actively consider ways to support their health and well-being, particularly through natural means such as herbal remedies. Hormone Harmony, a supplement made from herbal ingredients, is noted for receiving positive reviews from over 30,000 women, underlining its potential effectiveness in enhancing hormone health.
Defining Neurodivergence
Neurodivergence is understood as a term that may refer to individuals whose brains are wired differently compared to the norm, emphasizing differences rather than deficiencies. The speaker highlights the importance of viewing neurodivergent traits, such as those associated with autism and ADHD, as valuable variations of human experience instead of as pathological conditions. This perspective aims to shift the longstanding narrative from focusing on what is wrong with neurodivergent individuals to appreciating how diversity enriches society. By accepting neurodiversity, individuals can diminish feelings of inadequacy and foster a sense of belonging among those who think differently.
The Slow Journey to Self-Recognition
The journey toward recognizing one's neurodivergent identity can be a lengthy and gradual process, often influenced by societal misconceptions and stigma. Many individuals from earlier generations lack the framework to understand their differences, commonly attributing their struggles to personal flaws rather than neurodivergent traits. As parents of neurodivergent children self-reflect, they may identify parallels in their experiences, leading to discoveries of their own neurodivergence. This realization is frequently accompanied by a sense of validation, empowering them to embrace their identity and advocate for necessary adjustments in their lives.
The Impact of Diagnosis on Older Adults
Receiving a late diagnosis of autism can significantly transform various aspects of an older person's life, including self-perception and confidence. Many older adults report that diagnosis brings clarity and validation, allowing them to articulate their needs and advocate for themselves more effectively. The knowledge that they are not alone in their experiences helps in reducing self-doubt and encourages a more authentic lifestyle. Importantly, systemic barriers still impede access to necessary support, resulting in a critical need for improved awareness among medical and social service providers regarding the unique challenges faced by older autistic individuals.
The Intersections of Ageism and Autism
The experiences of older autistic adults often intersect with ageism, leading to significant challenges in acquiring appropriate support and resources. There is a misconception that aging autistic individuals no longer require assistance, ignoring the cumulative effects of masking and societal pressures faced throughout their lives. Ageist assumptions can contribute to feelings of isolation and discrimination, exacerbating the struggles of navigating healthcare systems that may not understand the needs of neurodivergent individuals. Research is urgently needed to identify and address the specific health and social care needs of aging autistic populations, particularly as the community continues to grow.
This week Monique interviews Professor Sandra Thom-Jones about aging as an autistic person. Sandra is an autistic author, artisan, academic, and advocate. She provides consultancy services to education, employment, and healthcare providers, and supports for autistic people, through her consultancy ‘Autistic Professor’. Sandra is the author of Growing in to Autism, and she has undertaken numerous research projects in partnership with the autistic community on the experiences of autistic people and the knowledge and attitudes towards autism in the community; including research that won the Autism CRC’s 2019 and 2021 awards for research translation and the 2022 award for inclusive research.
Monique and Sandra cover:
Sandra’s experience of her neurodivergence throughout her life and her path to identifying her autistic neurotype.
Why do older autistic adults tend to be ‘invisible’ to society at large, and what factors contribute to the support needs of this population?
Generational trends in the understanding of and meaning associated with an autism diagnosis, and the implications for disclosure and self-advocacy.
The unique needs of autistic folk when navigating later stages of life like menopause, increasing healthcare needs, aged care, retirement, and managing family changes and transitions.
The importance of discarding neuro-normative expectations about what aging or retirement ‘should’ look like, and Sandra’s tips for a joyful retirement as an autistic person.
You can find more of Sandra’s work through her website – www.autisticprofessor.com – or follow her on Facebook (@autisticprofessor) or Instagram (@sandrathomjones_au_author).
Follow Sandra on socials to stay updated on her next book, on the experiences of autistic people in the workplace!
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