Is It Dementia Or Depression?

Is It Dementia Or Depression?

Often times, families may think mom is developing dementia because her mood has changed so drastically. She is not as social as she used to be, she “forgets” to eat or doesn't “remember” to put her makeup on like she always did. Well, she may not be forgetting; she may be depressed.

Frequently, it is difficult to distinguish between depression and dementia, particularly in seniors with mild dementia or moderate to severe depression. Research has found that approximately 25 to 40 percent of seniors with dementia also have mild to severe depressive symptoms that require treatment, with about 80 percent of them being treated effectively using combined medication and psychotherapy.

Depression is the most treatable of the psychiatric diagnoses for all age groups including the elderly. There is clear evidence that seniors respond very well to antidepressant medications. Positive outcome studies have demonstrated success rates as high as 75 to 80 percent of individuals with depression being treated successfully with adequate medication and psychotherapy.

Improving the level of recognition and treatment of late-life depression in long-term care settings, could markedly reduce excess disability and significantly improve the quality of life for elderly residents.

In addition to medication, it is important that you do not dismiss holistic treatments for depression. Many studies have shown that acupuncture, acupressure, aroma therapy and massage therapy play a huge part in enhancing positive emotions.

It is also crucial that seniors are not isolating themselves. This is tough when they live home alone. Socialization is a big part of keeping one's spirits up, especially during the winter and holiday seasons.

Getting involved with the community's senior center, assisted living, and church, for example, will increase interaction with others and possibly assist with decreasing depression.