Graduation Semester and Year
2021
Language
English
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Social Work
Department
Social Work
First Advisor
Noelle L Fields
Abstract
Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong diagnosis. While numerous studies have examined the effects of this disorder throughout childhood, not many have considered older adulthood and the differences between the neurotypical population. Likewise there is an abundance of literature regarding healthy aging. Yet the literature is sparse regarding the intersections of older adulthood and ASD. The purpose of this scoping review was to examine the state of literature regarding older adults with ASD and healthy aging, utilizing the framework conceived by Arksey and O’Malley: identify the research question; identify the relevant studies, study selection; chart the data; and collate, summarize and report the results. The specific domains of healthy aging considered include: physical health, mobility, mental health, cognition and memory, and social connectedness. Results showed that for articles published in English for the past ten years, not much exists concerning older adults with ASD and healthy aging. The most studied aspects of healthy aging for this population include: social connectedness and cognition and memory. This study elucidates the need for additional research
Keywords
Social work, Healthy aging, Autism
Disciplines
Social and Behavioral Sciences | Social Work
License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Stringfellow, Mary Kris, "Healthy Aging and Older Adults with Autism: A Scoping Review" (2021). Social Work Theses. 25.
https://mavmatrix.uta.edu/socialwork_theses/25
Comments
Degree granted by The University of Texas at Arlington