Being Connected: Exploring associations between quality of life and social connectedness in middle-aged and older autistic adults

Abstract Background Autistic adults report lower quality of life (QoL), but little is known about how social connectedness and ageing interact to shape QoL in middle-aged and older autistic populations. This study examined differences in QoL and social connectedness between autistic and non-autistic adults, and how age and gender influence these patterns. Methods 265 autistic adults and 167 non-autistic adults aged 40–93 completed self-report measures of social connectedness, QoL, and symptoms of poor mental health. Group and gender differences in QoL were analysed using 2x2 ANOVAs. Pearson correlations and Fisher’s r-to-z tests assessed associations between social connectedness and QoL. Post hoc analyses examined age group differences. Results When compared to the non-autistic group, the autistic group reported significantly lower social connectedness scores, as well as lower QoL across all domains. Social connectedness was positively associated with QoL in both groups but was significantly stronger for Psychological QoL and Social QoL in the autistic group. Gender and age moderated these associations, with autistic men having stronger associations compared to autistic women. Post-hoc analyses revealed interactions with autism group and age group on all four QoL domains, with autistic people in older age having significantly lower scores than autistic people in midlife, a pattern not observed in the non-autistic group. Conclusion Social connectedness may play a key role in shaping QoL for autistic adults as they age. Tailored, lifespan-focused support is needed to promote sustained social connection and foster wellbeing.