Theory of Mind Mediates the Association Between Autistic Traits and Social Isolation in Middle-Aged and Older Adults

Abstract

Social isolation has detrimental effects on wellbeing. While isolation can occur at any age, its prevalence has been found to increase in older adulthood. Populations with social functioning differences, such as autistic people, have also been found to be at particular risk of isolation across the lifespan, including in older age. Despite the widespread impacts of isolation, little is known about the underlying factors that may contribute to social isolation in autistic people and the general populations. While social isolation has been linked to autistic traits and theory of mind (ToM), no study has yet considered their inter-relationship. Taking a dimensional approach to autistic traits, this study examined the association between autistic traits (assessed by the AQ-10), ToM (CarToM and Frith–Happé Triangles) and social isolation (Lubben Social Connectedness Scale) among 111 adults (n = 53 autistic, 58 non-autistic), aged 40–86 years. The study also assessed the putative mediating role of ToM in the association between autistic traits and isolation. Pearson correlational analyses showed middle-aged and older adults with higher social connectedness reported fewer autistic traits and showed better performance in ToM tasks, even when accounting for the effect of age and mental health symptoms. Mediation analyses suggested the association between autistic traits and social isolation was partially mediated by ToM when age and mental health symptoms were accounted for. These findings suggest one possible mechanism for the experience of social isolation. Additionally, the findings highlight that autistic people and people with high autistic traits may be particularly susceptible to social isolation in midlife and older age, and may benefit from additional support and possible interventions to maintain desired levels of social connectedness in later life.