title: The stories of older parents of adult sons and daughters with autism: a balancing act.
abstract: 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.
  
  
  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.
authors.affiliation: The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
authors.forename: Monique
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Hines
authors.forename: Susan
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Balandin
authors.forename: Leanne
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Togher
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D032721:Adult Children; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001321:Autistic Disorder / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D028642:Persons with Psychiatric Disorders; D008875:Middle Aged; D010290:Parents / Q000523:psychology*; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013315:Stress, Psychological
keywords: adult; autism; caregiving; family; older parent