Location:
Hartford Room, The Commons Building, 2nd
Floor, The Institute of Living/Hartford Hospital
200 Retreat Avenue, Hartford, CT 06106
Abstract:
Distinguishing depression from early
dementia in the elderly remains a vexing clinical problem. The clinical reality
is that both affective and cognitive symptoms are common in the older
population. About 15 to 30% of older adults have significant depression
symptoms, and 17% to 23% of non-depressed elderly have cognitive impairment
short of dementia. Little is known about the prevalence of co-occurring
depression and cognitive impairment; even less is known about their joint or
individual effects on risk of dementia conversion.
Although research has shown that both
cognitive impairment and late life depression are associated with increased risk
for later dementia, these investigations appear to be proceeding along two
separate tracks. Studies of depression often exclude individuals with cognitive
impairment or inadequately assess cognition. Likewise, studies of MCI often
either exclude individuals with depression, or inadequately assess their
depression.
Several recent studies have examined the
issue of identification older depressed individuals who in fact may be in early
stages of dementia. In his presentation, Dr. Steffens will review the
literature on depression and cognitive impairment as risk factors for cognitive
decline and dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s disease. He will conclude with
recommendations for early identification of dementia in older depressed
individuals.
Learning Objectives:
-
The participants will understand the
relationship between depression and later cognitive decline.
-
The participants will be able to
identify neuropsychological and brain imaging
correlates of late life depression.
-
The participants will be able to discuss
the importance of prominent memory impairment in late life depression.
References:
Steffens DC, Otey E, Alexopoulos
GS, et al. Perspectives on Depression, Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Cognitive
Decline. Arch Gen Psychiatry 2006;63:130-138.
Steffens DC, Potter GG. Geriatric
Depression and Cognitive Impairment. Psychological Medicine 2008;38(2):163-175.
PMID: 17588275.
Steffens DC, Potter GG, McQuoid DR, et al.
Longitudinal Magnetic Resonance Imaging Vascular Changes, Apolipoprotein E
Genotype, and Development of Dementia in the Neurocognitive Outcomes of
Depression in the Elderly Study. Am J Geriatr Psychiatry 2007;15(10):839-849.
Bibliography prepared by
the IOL Medical Library. Call 545-7276 for information.
Books
Blazer D. Depression in
Late Life, Third Edition. Springer Publishing, 2002. WM 171 B645d.
Storandt M & VandenBos GR.
Neuropsychological Assessment of Dementia and Depression in Older Adults: A
Clinician’s Guide. American Psychological Association, 1994. WM 220 N494.
Articles
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(ELECTRONIC FULL-TEXT FORMAT)
<2> Dierckx E et al.
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May. (ELECTRONIC FULL-TEXT FORMAT)
<3> Sheline YI et al.
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<9> Steffens DC et al.
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(ELECTRONIC FULL-TEXT FORMAT)
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