Long-term outcome of autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

In most cases, autism spectrum disorder is a life-long condition, often severely affecting the quality of life of the patient and his/her family, but nowadays this diagnosis should not be considered a final sentence without appeal. Although even today the recovery from the autism spectrum is an unlikely possibility, a timely psycho-educational intervention can significantly improve the level of autonomy reached by the individual and therefore favorably modify the outcome. Some predictors of long-term outcome are known, primarily childhood intelligence quotient and early language/communication ability, but today this issue is still open. The lack of studies evaluating the long-term effects of the most important intervention programmes should be filled with adequate research. Community support and social integration may be very important in improving outcomes for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. But a real social integration involves a work activity and this is still a great problem today. An adequate and timely preparation of the working career of these individuals is fundamental for their future, and it should be done by choosing, as far as possible, suitable activities for them. Finally, in creating a dignified future for people with autism, we must never forget to listen to their point of view, whenever possible, in order to meet their particular needs.

Keywords: Adolescence; adulthood; autism spectrum disorder; follow-up; long-term outcome; prognostic factors.