Depression or Alzheimer’s?
Aging adults are at a higher risk for both Alzheimer’s and depression. Some of the symptoms of these two mirror each other closely, and it’s difficult to tell exactly what’s wrong. There are a few tips for telling the two diseases apart.
Depressed adults often have trouble concentrating and focusing on the tasks in front of them. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean they can’t remember things, a sign of Alzheimer’s. It’s important to figure out why you are struggling to remember things – the causes could be important in determining if it’s Alzheimer’s or depression.
Disorientation and apraxia – the inability to remember how to preform learned and routine tasks – is another sign of Alzheimer’s rather than depression. Depressed adults are usually aware of their surroundings, even if they do not react to them. Those with Alzheimer’s often struggle to remember who they’re talking to and where they are.
The best way to decide, however, is to talk to a doctor. Depression and Alzheimer’s are both serious diseases with dangerous consequences, and it’s important to diagnose them properly.
Pinkowish, Mary. “How Is Depression in the Elderly Different From Dementia? – Depression – Health.com.” Health.com: Health News, Wellness, and Medical Information. Web. 30 Nov. 2011. <http://www.health.com/health/condition-article/0,,20188947,00.html>.
