The stories of older parents of adult sons and daughters with autism: a balancing act.
BACKGROUND
Researchers acknowledge the importance of understanding how families of children with autism cope. Yet, little is known about the experiences of older parents of adults with autism.


MATERIALS AND METHODS
In-depth interviews were conducted with 16 older parents of adults with autism. Narrative analysis was used to gain insights into their lived experiences.


RESULTS
Participants' narratives reflected the notion that much of their experience was a delicate balancing act as they attempted to manage their offspring's symptoms of autism whilst achieving a degree of fulfilment in their own lives. Parents did not believe that formal services had adequately supported their ability to provide care whilst meeting other needs within the family context.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings have implications for services that attempt to support older parents' abilities to provide care, including the need for tailored intervention strategies that match each family's unique needs.
['Hines|Monique|M|', 'Balandin|Susan|S|', 'Togher|Leanne|L|']
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological D000328:Adult D032721:Adult Children D000367:Age Factors D000368:Aged D000369:Aged, 80 and over D001321:Autistic Disorder D005260:Female D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand D006801:Humans D008297:Male D028642:Mentally Ill Persons D008875:Middle Aged D010290:Parents D036301:Qualitative Research D013315:Stress, Psychological
older parent adult autism family caregiving