Depression is linked to dementia in older adults

Journal article

Depression and dementia are both common conditions in older people, and they frequently occur together. Rather than a risk factor, depression with onset in later life is more likely to be either prodromal to dementia or a condition that unmasks pre-existing cognitive impairment by compromising cognitive reserve. The distinction between depression and early dementia may be particularly difficult. Detailed histories obtained from patients and their relatives as well as longitudinal follow-up are important.

Authors: Valkanova, V; Ebmeier, K; Allan, C

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: Practitioner Medical Publishing
• Journal: Practitioner
• Volume: 261
• Issue: 1800
• Pages: 11-14
• Publication date: 2017-01-23
• ISSN: 0032-6518