Sheffield Autistic Society have received the following from Hannah Taylor of Sheffield Hallam University –
Participants required for an MSc Occupational Therapy Research Project: How do older adults on the autism spectrum experience the transitions typical in older age?
The purpose of this research is to explore how older adults (60+) on the autism spectrum experience the transitions and changes that occur as we age. Such ‘transitions’ may include retirement, changes in physical health or needing to change accommodation.
Existing research has largely focused on the ‘transitions’ younger people on the autism spectrum may experience – such as moving up to secondary school. However there is currently limited research on the experiences of older adults on the autism spectrum and the changes/transitions that may occur as we get older.
It is hoped that this research project could suggest ways in which occupational therapy could better support the needs of older adults on the autism spectrum in the future.
Who can get involved?
I am looking to recruit individuals on the autism spectrum aged 60+ who will be willing to talk to me about their experiences.
What will happen if I take part?
You will be required to be interviewed by myself about your experiences of getting older and any changes that have occurred.
You will not be made to talk about anything you do not want to. You will be provided with an itinerary of the interview process and examples of the topics that will be discussed before any interview takes place. The interviews will be conducted at a mutually agreed time and appropriate location.
All interviews will be recorded and transcribed for the research project. Your identity will be anonymised and all recordings and transcripts will be kept in a secure location.
You will not be paid for taking part in this research, but copies of the final research will be made available to you.
If you are interested in taking part and/or want to find out more information about this research project, you can contact me by email at:
Hannah.M.Taylor4@student.shu.ac.uk
This research has been granted ethical approval from Sheffield Hallam University.