Depression or Dementia?

Depression and dementia are often confused in older people, and the conditions can coexist. Feeling sad, lonely, or socially isolated is not uncommon as we age, or at any age. Everyone gets the blues at times and has days where getting out of bed seems like too much. When depression is a clinical issue, feelings of hopelessness, dread, and sadness last for several days, preventing one from participating in ordinary life and previously pleasurable activities, and might lead to suicide. It’s helpful to meet with someone if you suspect depression or dementia in yourself or a loved one because the symptoms are not always clear--research shows that many elderly don’t think of themselves as sad, although other signs of depression are present. These include anxiety; agitation; physical complaints that don’t have an organic basis; isolation from others; feelings of confusion, delusions, or hallucinations; loss of self worth; and fatigue or no energy, as well as overeating, undereating, and having difficulty with sleep.

Loss of cognitive or reasoning functions due to dementia can also look like depression--confusion can appear as sadness, recognition of cognitive losses can lead to low self-esteem, and alcohol abuse can mask signs of both.

Talking with a professional for both assessment and counseling can help.

Call us for more details at (415) 750-4111.

Take a free, confidential online mental health screening.