An Unexpected Diagnosis

Imagine living your entire life feeling out of place, as if something fundamental about you is damaged. For Andrew Davies, this feeling persisted until he received an autism diagnosis at the age of 70. He recalls, “I always felt broken, weird, or that there was something wrong with me,” a sentiment shared by many others who may also be on the autism spectrum without knowing it.

The Landscape of Autism in Older Adults

Recent studies show that between 250,000 and 600,000 adults over the age of 50 in England might be undiagnosed autistic individuals. Astonishingly, researchers estimate that over 90% of autistic people in this age group lack a formal diagnosis. Many, like Andrew, have endured a lifetime of misunderstanding and isolation. “Autism was often viewed solely as a childhood condition, but in reality, it is a lifelong experience,” Andrew explains.

A Career Marked by Social Challenges

At 72, Andrew reflects on a remarkable career as a public servant. He served as a minister for the Welsh government for a decade and represented Swansea West in the assembly from 1999 to 2011. Despite his accomplishments, Andrew’s journey has been marked by social challenges that left him questioning his self-worth. Navigating social scenarios often felt overwhelming, leading him to describe himself as “standoffish” due to a combination of shyness and a lack of understanding of social cues.

Hypersensitivity and Hyperfixation

Throughout his life, Andrew experienced hypersensitivity to stimuli, such as loud sounds and certain smells, which made social gatherings unbearable. However, this sensitivity also underpinned his remarkable ability to concentrate intensely on subjects of interest, a trait commonly associated with autism known as hyperfixation. He would immerse himself deeply in research, often losing track of time.

The Journey to Diagnosis

It was during a casual conversation with a colleague, who had recently received an autism diagnosis, that Andrew saw parallels in their experiences. The colleague mentioned having classic signs of autism, which resonated with Andrew, prompting him to explore the possibility further. He began reading extensively about autism and took an online quiz designed by leading experts in the field, confirming his instincts about being on the spectrum.

Facing the System

Seeking clarity and guidance, Andrew pursued a formal diagnosis, only to confront a daunting NHS waitlist of three to four years. Opting for a private assessment, he finally received confirmation: he is autistic. “This diagnosis has been liberating,” he expresses. “It means I’m not broken or weird; it’s just how my brain is wired.

Mental Health Struggles

Andrew’s journey hasn’t been without struggles. He has battled depression since his teenage years, a common experience among individuals on the autism spectrum. Research indicates that autistic individuals may be more susceptible to mental health challenges. Additionally, he has faced episodes of burnout, which he now links to his autism.

The Needs of Older Autistic Adults

Dr. Gavin Stewart, a research fellow at King's College London, highlights the critical gap in autism diagnoses among older adults. While the diagnosis rate for children stands at one in 34, for adults over 50, it plummets to one in 6,000. Historical perspectives on autism contributed to this disparity, as many older individuals grew up in times when autism was regarded as exceedingly rare.

The Impact of Diagnosis

Receiving a diagnosis later in life, according to Dr. Stewart, often illuminates past experiences, helping individuals like Andrew comprehend their lives better and access vital support systems. He emphasizes the importance of clinicians being trained to recognize undiagnosed autistic patients within older adult services. “The right help can significantly enhance the quality of life for autistic individuals as they age,” he points out.

A Message of Hope

Andrew's story underscores a powerful message: diagnosis can be a turning point, opening doors to support networks that foster understanding and acceptance. As society evolves in its understanding of autism, there is hope for more individuals to receive the recognition they deserve, allowing them to live fulfilling lives free from the shadows of misunderstanding.

Conclusion: Embracing Identity

As Andrew ultimately reflects, “Having clarity about my identity has enabled me to come to terms with my past and embrace who I am.” So, let’s shine a light on autism awareness—because no one should ever feel broken.