By Dr. Brent P. Forester, MSc., Geriatric Psychiatrist, Bridges by EPOCH at Westford
Depression occurs in about 50 to 60 percent of individuals with all forms of dementia, including the Alzheimer’s type of dementia. Symptoms can include emotional symptoms, such as:
- Feeling hopeless or helpless
- Crying
- Feeling sad or lonely
- Not wanting to live anymore
Furthermore, depression may also alter sleep patterns, reduce someone’s energy levels, or change appetite, either increasing or decreasing it. These various symptoms can significantly adversely affect an individual’s quality of life.
Interestingly, sometimes depression also impairs attention and concentration and can make it seem like an individual with dementia is getting worse rather quickly. A careful medical assessment with a primary care physician and psychiatric assessment with a geriatric psychiatrist is vital to determine the causes of change in cognitive functioning and behavior in order to come up with a sensible and effective treatment plan.
Depression may also reflect a reaction to the realization that one’s memory is declining and they are grieving the loss of independence and the person who they once were. A geriatric psychiatrist can provide psychotherapy support to these individuals and help the staff at a community such as Bridges by EPOCH strategize about appropriate interventions, such as engaging these individuals in meaningful activities to help in these transitional times.