Are there protective factors in autism that buffer risk at advanced parental age?

PostedDecember 2, 2025

UpdatedDecember 2, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Hannah Smith, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

As more people have children later in life, the question of whether protective factors in autism exist for those with advanced parental age is increasingly important. While advanced age is a known risk factor for autism, recent research suggests that there are factors that could potentially buffer this risk.

Prenatal health strategies such as balanced nutrition, regular prenatal care, and stress management can play a significant role in mitigating the impact of age-related factors. These strategies may not eliminate the risk entirely, but they could reduce the likelihood of neurodevelopmental disorders in children born to older parents

How protective factors in autism work at advanced age

Here’s how protective factors in autism may reduce risk for older parents:

Balanced prenatal health strategies

Proper prenatal nutrition, including key vitamins and minerals like folate and omega-3s, can support healthy brain development and reduce the chances of autism, even in older mothers and fathers.

Risk reduction in autism through stress management

High levels of stress during pregnancy have been linked to autism, and prenatal health strategies focused on reducing stress such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and regular exercise could lower the risk of autism in offspring.

Visit providers like Autism Detect for personal consultations to understand how protective factors in autism can support your family planning and reduce the risk of developmental challenges, especially with advanced parental age.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnostic nuances, and full developmental outlook, read our complete guide to Advanced Parental Age.

Hannah Smith, MSc

Author

Hannah Smith is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and over three years of experience in behaviour therapy, special education, and inclusive practices. She specialises in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and inclusive education strategies. Hannah has worked extensively with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), ADHD, Down syndrome, and intellectual disabilities, delivering evidence-based interventions to support development, mental health, and well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.