Autism can be diagnosed at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in early childhood.
Early Diagnosis
- 18-24 months: This is the typical age range when parents or caregivers may start noticing developmental delays or signs of autism in their child.
- 2-5 years: Most children are diagnosed with autism between these ages, as they begin to show more pronounced differences in communication, social interaction, and behavior compared to their peers.
- Later diagnosis: While less common, autism can also be diagnosed in older children, adolescents, and adults. This may happen if the signs were missed earlier or if the individual's needs have changed.
Factors Affecting Diagnosis
The age of diagnosis can be influenced by several factors, including:
- Severity of autism: Children with more severe autism may show more obvious signs earlier on.
- Access to healthcare: Early access to developmental screenings and specialists can lead to earlier diagnosis.
- Awareness: Increased awareness of autism in the community can encourage parents and caregivers to seek diagnosis sooner.
It's important to remember that every individual with autism is unique and their experiences will vary.
