How to Recognize the Similarities and Differences Between Alzheimer’s and Depression

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If you have an elderly parent, it can be difficult to determine if they are depressed or suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. Both afflictions have similar symptoms, and some people live with both depression and Alzheimer’s.

More than three million cases of Alzheimer’s disease are diagnosed each year in the United States. While only a licensed physician should diagnose Alzheimer’s or depression, this overview can give you a general idea of whether your aging parent may be living with Alzheimer’s, depression, or both.

Some common symptoms of both depression and Alzheimer’s include:

• Apathy
• Social withdrawal
• Isolation
• Trouble concentrating
• Impaired thinking
• Memory problems
• Loss of interest in hobbies and activities
• Sleeping too little or too much

Depression is very common among those living with Alzheimer’s disease, and the two conditions often occur together. Additional signs of depression include but are not limited to:

• Feeling sad or numb
• Excessive crying
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Feelings of restlessness or irritability
• Headaches
• Backaches
• Digestive issues
• Thinking about death or suicide

Alzheimer’s disease is the most commonly diagnosed type of dementia. Alzheimer’s is a brain disorder caused by the damage of brain cells which makes it difficult to communicate, remember, and learn. Other symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include:

• Memory loss and confusion
• Mental decline
• Delusion or disorientation
• Irritability or agitation
• Personality changes
• Mood swings
• Loss of appetite
• Jumbled speech

Elderly Americans living with Alzheimer’s disease or depression often need assistance or specialized care. Whether your loved one needs assistance dealing with their Alzheimer’s disease or depression, Elder Care Connection can help them get the care they need.

The best way to determine what type of care your loved one needs is by scheduling an in-home evaluation with the experienced and compassionate care managers at Elder Care Connection. Give us a call today at 914-908-6822 to schedule your evaluation.