Asperger’s Syndrome with depression and substance abuse: First-time presentation and diagnosis in a 64-year old man

ABSTRACT

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) rarely are brought to clinical notice in geriatric population. This case isof a 64 years old gentleman with high-functioning ASD (diagnosed as Asperger’s Syndrome) presenting forsocial/ communication deficits affecting his personal life and career, resulting in depression and substanceabuse. His family was skeptical about his symptoms. He was successfully treated for depression andsubstance abuse; CBT, psychoeducation, individual therapy, social skills training were done to help himcope with his ASD symptoms. Family therapy was done to improve the family’s understanding of ASD andbonding with him. After 1 year of treatment, he is thriving in all aspects – better family relations, careermanagement and personal emotional well-being. This opens up a discussion regarding undiagnosed ASD inolder adults and elderly, comorbidities, the resulting community mental health burden which goes neglected,and therefore the need for more vigilant detection, and treatment options.