Think your parent is neurodivergent? Here’s what you need to know

Awareness of neurodiversity has grown, but older adults remain underserved. One study estimated 89–97% of autistic people over 60 are undiagnosed, a group Dr Louise Rutter and others have called a "neglected generation". Adult children who recognise traits in ageing parents often wonder where to find support — experts generally advise seeking help.

Later life can make traits more obvious or harder to manage. Retirement, changing health, bereavement and moves into care can disrupt long-established routines and reduce the capacity to mask, says Dr Georgia Pavlopoulou; Dr Neil Drew notes that ADHD-related changes may bring low mood.

Look for difficulties that cause real disruption rather than mere quirks — distress when routines break, trouble managing social situations or communication, isolation, or conversations that seem scripted and are hard to sustain because of fatigue. Many specialists encourage diagnosis even in advanced age because it can prompt life‑long reflection and help people and families make sense of past experiences.

neurodiversity, autism, adhd, older adults, undiagnosed autism, diagnosis, masking, routine disruption, care homes, support services