Autism Through the Ages: Myth vs Reality

Does autism get worse with age? This is a common question among parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). research shows that symptoms of autism do not necessarily worsen as individuals age.

Many children with autism experience improvements in some skills and behaviors as they get older. With proper support, education and therapy, children can develop coping skills and strategies that make daily life easier. As they mature, they gain a better understanding of social rules and norms which can help reduce some autistic behaviors. And with speech and language therapy, many children’s communication skills continue to progress over time.

However, autism is a spectrum condition that affects everyone differently. For some individuals, certain symptoms may become more prominent or challenging as they age into adulthood. Changes in environment, routine and expectations can be difficult for people with ASD and trigger more severe autistic behaviors. Some individuals also experience what is known as “regression,” where skills that were previously acquired are suddenly lost. But this is not the case for most people with autism.

In summary, while autism itself does not get “worse” with age for the vast majority of individuals, certain autism symptoms and behaviors may become more challenging to manage as children grow into adulthood. But with the right supports in place, many individuals with ASD are able to lead fulfilling and independent lives as they age. The trajectory depends largely on each person’s unique situation, needs and access to resources.