Monthly Archives: July 2016

This is the continuation of the previous article on Depression and Dementia.

What is the relationship of Depression and Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)?
• The biological changes caused by AD may intensify a predisposition to depression;
• Depression may increase the chances of developing AD;
• Depression can affect quality of life of persons with AD:
   ◦ Worsening cognitive decline
   ◦ Greater disability with regard to Activities of Daily Living
   ◦ Increased dependence on caregivers

What is the difference between Depression and Dementia?
• Depression develops more quickly than Dementia
• Problems with speech, reasoning, orientation to time & space usually common in persons with Dementia & not with Depression.
• Persons with Depression may occasionally complain of difficulty remembering but will be able to do so with prompts.
• Persons with Depression may complain of impaired reasoning & memory but these improve after medication or when depression lifts
• Lack of motivation (apathy) to do things seen in both conditions, but this disappears when anti-depressive medication is given.

(sources: helpguide.org., alheizmer.org.uk, mayoclinic.org)

Causes of Depression
• Traumatic event
• Changes in one’s life situation (e.g. retirement, moving to a new house)
• Effects of certain illnesses or side effect of medication
• Social Isolation or lack of social support
• Lack of meaningful things to do (e.g. after retirement)
• Worries over issues of money, relationships

Signs of Depression
A persistent condition characterized by feelings of:
• Sadness & hopelessness
• Loss of energy & appetite
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Problems remembering, concentrating or making simple decisions
• Increased agitation and restlessness

Managing Depression
• Self help
   ◦ Regular physical exercise (e.g. walking, yoga, Zumba dancing)
   ◦ A reassuring regular daily routine
   ◦ Planning social activities with people, decreasing social isolation
   ◦ Increased time spent doing enjoyable activities (reminiscence & life story work, cooking with a group)
   ◦ Engaging in a hobby (e.g. crocheting, reading)
   ◦ Volunteering one’s time and talents in an organization
   ◦ Making changes in the environment (reducing unwanted stimuli e.g. lights, noise, crowds)

• Talking Therapy (individual counseling & w/ support group)

• Medical Management (Antidepressant Medication)

(sources: helpguide.org., alheizmer.org.uk, mayoclinic.org):