Dementia encompasses a range of conditions that cause progressive brain decline and memory loss, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most prevalent. Alzheimer’s typically manifests as memory loss and cognitive impairments severe enough to disrupt daily activities.
While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, early detection can slow its progression and maintain a better quality of life for those affected. Contrary to common belief, memory loss might not be the initial sign of Alzheimer’s.
A comprehensive review from 2017 indicates that depression could be an early symptom. This review examined studies from 1937 to 2016 to identify the earliest signs of Alzheimer’s.
It revealed that in cases of late-onset Alzheimer’s, depression and cognitive impairment were among the first symptoms, appearing in 98.5% and 99.1% of individuals, respectively. In early-onset Alzheimer’s, these figures were 9% for depression and 80% for cognitive impairment.
Memory loss was also noted as an early symptom, occurring 12 years prior to a formal diagnosis of advanced Alzheimer’s. The researchers concluded that “the findings of this review suggest that neurological and depressive behaviours are an early occurrence”.
They added: “However, the study was limited by the fact that each one of the findings was based on a single study.” Spotting depression can be challenging in itself, let alone when it appears as a symptom of Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia.
The Alzheimer’s Association (AA) has provided examples of symptoms common to both depression and dementia. The health body said: “In addition, the cognitive impairment experienced by people with Alzheimer’s often makes it difficult for them to articulate their sadness, hopelessness, guilt and other feelings associated with depression.”
They also emphasised that depression in Alzheimer’s patients may not resemble typical depression, as it might not be as severe and may fluctuate rather than being a constant feeling. They further observed that an individual with Alzheimer’s may be less likely to discuss or attempt suicide than those suffering solely from depression.