Rebecca Charlton, Professor of Psychology at Goldsmiths, University of London and a leading international expert on ageing and autism, delivered the lecture “Autism in Middle and Older Age” at the Hospital del Rey Auditorium of the University of Burgos.
This keynote was held within the framework of the European project AHA4Autism, which focuses on understanding the ageing process of autistic people and improving support systems throughout later adulthood.
In her talk, Charlton explored how diagnosis, physical and mental health, wellbeing, and quality of life shape the experiences of autistic people as they grow older. She highlighted the need for more research, specialised support, and greater public awareness, noting that ageing and autism is an area of growing significance for both the scientific community and autism organisations worldwide.
The session also featured an overview of the main findings and contributions of AHA4Autism, which has generated valuable knowledge and innovative tools aimed at enhancing quality of life for autistic people in middle and older age.
Charlton’s lecture drew strong interest from professionals and families, underscoring the increasing international attention to ageing and autism.