Depression can be common in a person with dementia. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information in the US, some 30 per cent of people with Alzheimer’s disease can have depression, and over 40 per cent of those with Parkinson’s and Huntington’s disease may experience it.
It can sometimes be difficult to identify depression in a person with dementia, as some of the symptoms of dementia can be similar. Dementia can often be misdiagnosed as anxiety or depression.
Depression can be described as when a person has been feeling very low for a long time. The person may lack motivation to carry out normal daily tasks and activities.
A person with dementia may be depressed due to their diagnosis. They may be depressed because they are unable to maintain their independence or do all the things they used to enjoy. Supporting the person to maintain their hobbies and interests where possible is therefore crucial and can help to boost their mood.
In addition, a person with a history of depression is more likely to become depressed when they receive a dementia diagnosis.
The challenges a person faces when they have dementia can also cause them to feel low. Signs of depression in a person with dementia can include:
Being agitated
Fidgeting
Needing reassurance
Being irritable
Being emotional and tearful
However, some of these are symptoms of dementia, so depression can be hard to diagnose.
If you feel that the person with dementia may have depression, speak to their family about your concerns or encourage them to seek help from their GP.
Their GP should ask them about their low mood, how long they have felt this way and what triggers negative feelings.
While there is no substitute for medical advice, and the person should seek help from their GP, there are things you can do that may help to improve the person’s mood.
Ensure the person has things to do that bring them pleasure, such as walking, dancing, listening to music or admiring plants in the garden.
Tailor your care to match the person’s needs. You may be on hand to help with household chores and personal care, but the person may also want to sit with you sometimes and have company. If the person wants to talk or watch TV with you, try to accommodate their wishes.