Long-term care leaders perception of residential living services for older adults with autism

There is a growing population of older adults, over the age of 55 years, diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders. In the United States, residential long-term care facilities are a primary care option for many elderly populations. However, providing care for the unique population of adults with autism requires specialized understanding of these populations' needs. Current researchers provided insight into the needs of children and young adults with autism; however, few researchers focused on the needs for older adults with autism. In an effort to contribute knowledge which would reduce the gap in the research, sought in the current study were the perceptions of 15 long-term care leaders in the Phoenix, Arizona, metropolitan areas regarding factors which influences the successful transition of adults with autism into RLTCFs. Using a transcendental phenomenological research design, identified in the study were both positive and negative factors which appeared to influence the transition of older adults with autism into assisted living, independent living, memory care, and directive care facilities. Data were collected using the qualitative phenomenological research method van Kaam developed and Moustakas modified. Analysis of the interview data resulted in five themes related to developing services: awareness, community, care, government, and activities. The study findings include a new perspective on factors that long-term care leaders believe are essential for transitioning older adults with autism into their facilities. Future research is recommended to explore the transferability of the findings to other long-term care leader's experiences and future development of improved services for this unique population.