When a person with dementia has depression

Hello everyone,

Last week we discussed apathy in people with dementia, and approaches to use during care. Like apathy, depression is common in people with dementia, often in the early to middle stages of the disease.

According to a recent article by DailyCaring.com, depression symptoms in people with Alzheimer’s disease tend to be less severe than in those who are depressed but don’t have dementia, and people with both Alzheimer’s and depression may have noticeable irritability and social withdrawal but not many of the other common symptoms of depression.

 A person with dementia may also have depression if you observe:

  • Social withdrawal/isolation
  • Apathy or lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
  • Irritability
  • Crying
  • Lack of appetite
  • Lethargy

For people who are living with dementia and depression, a combination of treatments can be effective, including non-pharmacologic approaches and anti-depressants if needed. Many experts identify inactivity as a major problem for people with dementia and depression, and keeping these people engaged in the world around them and participating in purposeful activities is crucial to their well-being. Practically speaking, if we keep someone engaged in activities that they find fulfilling, they have less time to be isolated and depressed.

Below is a link to full article by DailyCaring.com with more helpful information:

http://dailycaring.com/when-depression-and-dementia-collide/?utm_source=DailyCaring&utm_campaign=5a1e15d846-DC_Email_2018-02-20&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_57c250b62e-5a1e15d846-123152321 

And here’s another link to a recent article about older adults with dementia needing MORE physical activity. The study shows that people with dementia who have good balance, muscular strength and mobility are less likely to suffer from depression. http://sciencenordic.com/elderly-people-dementia-need-more-physical-activity

Have a great week!

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