New travel insurance figures reveal a sharp rise in ADHD and autism diagnoses among over-50s, with experts suggesting many are only now receiving a diagnosis. The number of neurodivergent conditions declared on travel insurance policies has almost tripled, according to data from Staysure.
Figures show the number of over-50s declaring ADHD or autism rose by 79% in just seven months, from 2,613 in 2025 to 4,676 between January and July 2026. ADHD declarations across all ages have also more than doubled in the last year, with 21,620 cases recorded by customers between January and July 2026, compared with 9,938 across the whole of 2025.
Rise in declarations across all ages
Mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions were declared 335,739 times in the first seven months of 2026, a 72% rise on the previous year. The figures coincide with the release of an independent review by the Department of Health and Social Care into the diagnosis and overdiagnosis of neurodivergent conditions.
Simon McCulloch, chief growth officer at Staysure, said: “Our data shows just how conditions such as ADHD, autism, anxiety and depression have increased dramatically in such a short space of time. People are finally receiving a diagnosis including those in later life and having the good foresight to declare it on their cover. Holidays and travelling should be something everyone can enjoy and look forward to. Being classed as neurodivergent or experiencing a mental health condition doesn't change that.”
Experts point to increased awareness
Dr Asimah Hanif, a registered NHS GP working with Staysure, said: “People may be receiving a diagnosis later in life for a number of reasons. Traits may be overlooked or misunderstood especially where symptom masking has occurred. There is now increased awareness and understanding of neurodivergence as well as changes in diagnostic criteria. This leads to better recognition of presentations in adults and encouragement to seek help and assessment even at a later stage.”
McCulloch added: “For some neurodivergent travellers, elements of a holiday that others barely think about can make travelling more challenging. Understanding your own needs or the people you’re travelling with as well as planning ahead can make a real difference. It’s also important to be open with your travel insurer when buying cover and declare all medical conditions. If you've been medically diagnosed with a condition, take medication, are under investigation or experiencing symptoms make sure you answer the questions fully and accurately during the quote medical declaration process. This helps your insurer understand your circumstances and individual needs. If you leave anything out, you risk not being financially protected from costly medical bills should you need emergency treatment abroad.”
The figures come as the number of neurodiversity assessments across the UK has surged, with an estimated one in seven Brits estimated to be neurodivergent. Hanif noted that travelling itself can create many challenges and unknowns, with the demands of travel such as planning ahead, unfamiliar environments and disrupted routines making these challenges for those with neurodivergence even more noticeable.
