Autism can sometimes explain lifelong behaviors and habits that a person has always exhibited. Late autism diagnosis is more common than people realize. While ASD is typically associated with childhood, many individuals receive their diagnosis in adulthood.
This delay can leave them feeling misunderstood or struggling without knowing why. Late diagnosis is especially common in women. But why are girls so often overlooked? Experts believe that many girls excel at masking their symptoms and blending in, leading to a higher rate of undiagnosed autism among women.
Raising awareness about late autism diagnosis is crucial. Understanding the signs—at any age—can help people get the support they need to live a better, more fulfilling life.
What is a late autism diagnosis?
A late autism diagnosis happens when someone is diagnosed later in life, often as an adult or in their late teens. Most people think autism is usually identified in childhood, but that’s not always the case.
Many parents might not take their child to a specialist or may even go to the wrong one. This is often due to an assumption that their child’s behavior is just a phase or a result of their parenting.
If it’s their first child, they don’t have much to compare the behavior to, so they might not notice anything unusual. And let’s be real—some parents are just scared of what a diagnosis might mean.
In recent years, though, there’s been growing awareness of late autism diagnosis, especially in adults. Many people who weren’t diagnosed as kids are now finding clarity about why they’ve always felt “different.”
The good news is that it’s never too late to understand yourself better and get the right support. For many, finally having an explanation for the struggles they’ve faced their whole lives is a huge relief.
Challenges of a late autism diagnosis
A late autism diagnosis can clear up a lot of confusion. People who go undiagnosed may feel isolated and alone, which often leads to self-doubt and low self-esteem.
They may often wonder if they’re doing something wrong or why social situations feel so exhausting. Communication can be tough without understanding the “why,” which just adds to the frustration.
A late diagnosis doesn’t erase the struggles, but it can finally give someone the tools and understanding they need to navigate life better. Knowing the root cause can make all the difference in building confidence, improving relationships, and feeling more at peace.
Years ago, a young man, Shaun, reached out to me. Although exceptionally intelligent, he was on the verge of dropping out of university, feeling overwhelmed. During our first meeting, Shaun spoke very little while his father explained his issues.
I recall his hands moving involuntarily, which visibly bothered him. He had no friends and avoided social gatherings. Shaun also struggled with sleep and limited diet.
The patient showed clear signs of autism. Testing revealed 10 of 12 retained primitive reflexes, which should fade by age 3.5. This was promising since exercises can help the brain suppress them.
Four months later, after doing exercises and sensory activities, Shaun’s appetite and sleep improved. After eight months, he had less compulsive movements, and communication became easier.
Six months later, he arrived with his girlfriend, whom he proudly introduced to me. They even enrolled in a dance course together.
In 2024, I gave a lecture in Budapest and recognized a familiar face—Shaun, now a PhD candidate. Afterward, he spoke with me, still showing subtle ASD traits but thriving. Learning the reasons behind his behavior helped him embrace himself and build a fulfilling life.
Late autism diagnosis in females
Autism often presents differently in females, which contributes significantly to the underdiagnosis or late diagnosis many women face.
Females on the spectrum are often skilled at masking their symptoms. They mimic social behaviors, adapt to their environment, and compensate in ways that can make their struggles almost invisible.
This, combined with the outdated belief that autism is primarily a “male condition,” leads to many women being overlooked or misdiagnosed. For instance, traits like heightened sensitivity, repetitive interests, or difficulties with social cues are frequently dismissed as personality quirks.
In my own work, I’ve found a consistent physiological pattern among women I’ve assessed: all of them had a retained Moro reflex, which should typically be inhibited by six months of age.
This primitive reflex, when persistent, can indicate delayed neurological development and often correlates with sensory sensitivities and heightened stress responses. These are all common challenges for females on the spectrum.
Recognizing these signs and the unique ways autism manifests in women is critical for timely diagnosis.
For many, receiving a late diagnosis of autism brings a profound sense of relief and validation, helping them understand their experiences, build self-acceptance, and access the right support.
This growing awareness is vital to improving the well-being of women who may have spent years feeling misunderstood or struggling in silence.
Benefits of a late autism diagnosis
A late autism diagnosis can provide life-changing clarity for individuals who may have spent years struggling to understand their own challenges. One of the biggest advantages is that it allows people to see their difficulties and unique behaviors in a new light.
Instead of feeling confused or frustrated, they gain an understanding of the reasons behind their struggles, making it easier to accept themselves. This self-awareness often leads to improved confidence and emotional well-being.
Additionally, once the problem is identified, solutions and support options become much more tangible. From tailored therapies to autism-specific services, a diagnosis opens doors to resources that can significantly enhance their quality of life.
In my practice, I test every individual for primitive reflexes and hemisphere function as part of the diagnostic process. When I identify issues, I recommend personalized exercise programs designed to help the brain mature and improve its regulation.
While it’s not possible to eliminate all the challenges associated with ASD, these interventions can make a real difference. They can help individuals process sensory input more effectively, feel more comfortable in their environment, and improve socialization skills.
One individual I worked with reported that after following their program, they were better able to handle social situations, felt less overwhelmed by environmental stimuli, and even developed closer relationships.
A late diagnosis isn’t just a label—it’s a path to understanding and improving life step by step.
Late-life autism diagnosis in adults
A late autism diagnosis can have a profound impact on an adult’s life, particularly in their relationships, career, and personal well-being. For many adults, finally understanding the reasons behind their struggles can be incredibly liberating.
It provides clarity, allowing them to see their unique behaviors and challenges in a new light. This self-awareness often helps them accept themselves and reduce feelings of guilt or inadequacy.
Additionally, knowing the diagnosis opens doors to targeted support, making it easier to develop coping strategies and improve social and emotional functioning.
Seeking a diagnosis as an adult typically involves a multi-step process. This may include:
- detailed interviews about past behaviors,
- psychological assessments, and
- neurological or sensorimotor evaluations.
While a diagnosis doesn’t solve every challenge overnight, it offers a roadmap for addressing them, helping adults feel more in control of their environment, build better relationships, and navigate life more successfully.
How to support individuals with a late autism diagnosis
Supporting someone with a late-life autism diagnosis begins with helping them understand that knowing what’s behind their behavior leads to greater self-awareness.
When they realize their challenges and unique traits have a neurological explanation, they are less likely to blame themselves or their environment. This clarity can be incredibly empowering, helping them accept themselves and make peace with their experiences.
Additionally, this understanding makes it easier for them to seek out the right kind of help, support, and treatment, which can alleviate symptoms, encourage growth, and help them adapt to their environment more effectively.
Practical strategies include connecting them with autism communities where they can find understanding and shared experiences. Accessing professional support, like therapy, can also be life-changing.
Therapies such as sensory integration, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or even targeted occupational therapies can be tailored to their specific needs. I also emphasize the importance of creating a personalized support plan.
Encouraging self-advocacy and openness is equally vital. By learning to express their needs and boundaries, they can build stronger relationships and better navigate the world around them.
With the right tools and support, individuals with a late diagnosis of autism can lead a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Embracing late diagnoses
Recognizing and understanding late-life autism diagnoses is crucial for fostering self-awareness and acceptance in individuals who may have spent years feeling misunderstood.
A diagnosis provides clarity, helps people better understand their behaviors and challenges, and opens doors to tailored support and treatment that can significantly improve their quality of life.
If you suspect you may be on the autism spectrum, seeking a professional assessment is a valuable step—no matter your age.
Let’s work together to increase awareness about autism in adulthood and among women, ensuring that everyone can understand themselves and access the support they need to thrive.
References
Carbone, P. S., Campbell, K., Wilkes, J., Stoddard, G. J., Huynh, K., Young, P. C., & Gabrielsen, T. P. (2020). Primary care autism screening and later autism diagnosis. Pediatrics, 146(2). https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/146/2/e20192314/77011?utm_source=TrendMD&utm_medium=TrendMD&utm_campaign=Pediatrics_TrendMD_0
Howlin, P., Moss, P., Savage, S., & Rutter, M. (2013). Social outcomes in mid- to later adulthood among individuals diagnosed with autism and average nonverbal IQ as children. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 52(6), 572-581.
Huang, Y., Arnold, S. R., Foley, K. R., & Trollor, J. N. (2020). Diagnosis of autism in adulthood: A scoping review. Autism, 24(6), 1311-1327. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1362361320903128
Leedham, A., Thompson, A. R., Smith, R., & Freeth, M. (2020). ‘I was exhausted trying to figure it out’: The experiences of females receiving an autism diagnosis in middle to late adulthood. Autism, 24(1), 135-146. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1362361319853442
Leedham, A., Thompson, A. R., Smith, R., & Freeth, M. (2020). ‘I was exhausted trying to figure it out’: The experiences of females receiving an autism diagnosis in middle to late adulthood. Autism, 24(1), 135-146.
This research focuses on the unique experiences of women diagnosed with autism later in life, discussing the social and personal implications of a late diagnosis.
Leisman, G., Melillo, R., Carrick, F. R., & et al. (2023). The Relationship between Retained Primitive Reflexes and Hemispheric Connectivity in Autism Spectrum Disorders. Brain Sciences, 13(8), 1147.
Melillo, R., Leisman, G., Machado, C., & et al. (2022). Retained Primitive Reflexes and Potential for Intervention in Autistic Spectrum Disorders. Frontiers in Neurology, 13, 922322.
Lilley, R., Lawson, W., Hall, G., Mahony, J., Clapham, H., Heyworth, M., … & Pellicano, E. (2022). ‘A way to be me’: Autobiographical reflections of autistic adults diagnosed in mid-to-late adulthood. Autism, 26(6), 1395-1408. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/13623613211050694
Stagg, S. D., & Belcher, H. (2019). Living with autism without knowing: Receiving a diagnosis in later life. Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine, 7(1), 348-361.
Zener, D. (2019). Journey to diagnosis for women with autism. Advances in autism, 5(1), 2-13. https://www.emerald.com/insight/content/doi/10.1108/AIA-10-2018-0041/full/html
FAQs
Q: What is a late autism diagnosis?
A: A late autism diagnosis occurs when an individual is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in their late teens or adulthood rather than during childhood. Many people with ASD—especially women—go undiagnosed due to masking behaviors or misconceptions about how autism presents in different individuals.
Q: Why do some people receive an autism diagnosis later in life?
A: There are many reasons why autism might go undiagnosed until adulthood. Some of the main ones include masking, misdiagnosis, lack of awareness, or a person having milder symptoms.
Q: What are the signs of autism in adults?
A: An autistic adult may have difficulties with social interactions, maintaining relationships, or understanding social cues. They may also have sensory sensitivities, thrive on routines, and struggle with changes. Some may show signs of communication difficulties, high levels of social anxiety, or have intense focus on specific topics.
Q: What challenges do people with a late autism diagnosis face?
A: Before the diagnosis, autistic adults may struggle with feeling different, maintaining relationships, exhaustion due to masking, anxiety, depression, and more. Some may even experience psychosomatic symptoms due to stress, such as headaches, stomach issues, or chronic fatigue.
Q: How does autism present differently in women compared to men?
A: Compared to men with autism, autistic women may be able to blend in better, have stronger emotional intelligence, or engage in more socially acceptable special interests. They may also have stronger internalized struggles, leading to anxiety, depression, or eating disorders. Because of this, many women remain undiagnosed or are misdiagnosed with other conditions like borderline personality disorder, ADHD, and more.
Q: Can a late autism diagnosis improve quality of life?
A: Many individuals experience significant relief after being diagnosed. They report understanding past struggles and reduced feelings of guilt or self-doubt. Many get access to tailored therapies, the right coping strategies, and support networks that help them thrive and develop a healthier sense of identity.
Q: What role do primitive reflexes play in autism?
A: Primitive reflexes are automatic movements present at birth that should fade as the brain matures. In people with ASD, retained reflexes can lead to sensory issues, poor coordination, emotional dysregulation, and challenges in socialization and communication. Targeted exercises can help integrate these reflexes, improving brain function and reducing sensory discomfort.
Q: How can adults with a late autism diagnosis get support?
A: Support for adults with ASD includes therapy, community support, self-education, workplace accommodations, and targeted exercises to improve well-being and daily functioning.
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