Depression and Cognitive Impairment in the Elderly

ABSTRACT

A number of studies have looked at depression and associated cognitive impairment. The term depressive pseudodementia has proved to be a popular clinical concept. Despite the improvement following treatment of depression, the baseline level of cognitive impairment in older depressive patients remained impaired, mostly. These patients would be likely at high risk of developing progressive dementia. Depressive symptoms and cognitive decline would be different phenotypes result from neurodegeneration of pathophysiology for dementia. Depression in elderly patients, especially late-onset appears to be a strong predictor of dementia. No more concept of pseudodementia, older patients with depressive symptoms combined cognitive impairment should probably have full dementia screenings, comprehensive cognitive testing and ongoing monitoring of their cognitive function.