A groundbreaking longitudinal study conducted by researchers at UCL has uncovered that older adults displaying higher levels of autistic traits do not exhibit a more pronounced decline in spatial working memory compared to their neurotypical counterparts. This investigation, which tracked the cognitive performance of over 10,000 UK adults aged 50 and above for seven years, challenges previous concerns regarding heightened risks of cognitive decline or dementia among autistic individuals. The findings suggest that patterns of aging in spatial memory are consistent regardless of neurodiversity.
The concept of spatial working memory involves recalling and utilizing information about the location and arrangement of objects. As people age, this cognitive ability can sometimes deteriorate, representing a natural aspect of the aging process but also potentially manifesting as a more severe symptom in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Prior studies had suggested a possible link between autism and increased dementia rates, leading to debates about whether autism might elevate the risk of cognitive decline. However, this new research refutes such assumptions.
Researchers analyzed data from the PROTECT study, focusing on 10,060 participants aged 50 and older who exhibited autistic traits, including difficulties in social communication and interaction, along with restricted or repetitive behaviors and interests. Utilizing growth mixture modeling, they assessed changes in spatial working memory over a seven-year span. Their analysis revealed that most participants, irrespective of possessing high levels of autistic traits, maintained stable cognitive abilities throughout the study period. This indicates that individuals with autistic traits are not predisposed to greater cognitive decline in this domain.
Professor Joshua Stott from UCL Psychology & Language Sciences emphasized the significance of these findings, stating that autism is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social communication and repetitive sensory-motor behaviors. Given the global focus on preventing cognitive decline and dementia led by the World Health Organization, understanding the potential impact of neurodevelopmental conditions on age-related cognitive decline has been a focal point of interest. The study provides compelling evidence suggesting no disparity between autistic and neurotypical individuals concerning increased risks of age-related cognitive decline.
Dr. Gavin Stewart, a British Academy Postdoctoral Research Fellow at King’s College London, highlighted the importance of studying how aging interacts with autism. He noted that while autistic individuals may face elevated risks of certain health issues and possess cognitive differences compared to non-autistic peers, this research offers reassuring insights into similar aging patterns in specific cognitive domains across both populations.
Despite its robust methodology, the study acknowledges certain limitations. Participants were limited to those capable of using computers and the internet, potentially excluding segments of the elderly population. Additionally, the assessment of autistic traits predominantly focused on social and communication challenges rather than encompassing other autism-related behaviors, which could influence outcomes. Furthermore, the predominantly white participant demographic may restrict the applicability of findings to diverse ethnic groups.
This research underscores the necessity for future studies to extend observation periods and incorporate broader age ranges to enhance comprehension of memory changes. Replication of these findings within diagnosed autism groups remains essential. Supported by various organizations, including the Dunhill Medical Trust and the National Institute for Health and Care Research, this study contributes valuable insights into the intersection of autism and cognitive aging.
