Anxiety & Depression with Dementia

It’s not uncommon for people who suffer from Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia to also develop depression and anxiety. In-home caregivers are a key part of first recognizing the symptoms and then finding ways to treat those conditions.

The Link Between Dementia and Anxiety

Which comes first: dementia or anxiety? It turns out, that’s a two-way street.

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society found astonishing links between dementia and anxiety. When we experience chronic anxiety, our body is constantly bombarded by stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These stress-response hormones cause a host of biological problems, including inflammation, brain cell damage, cognitive decline, metabolic slowing, and increased blood pressure. All are associated with an increased risk of dementia.

After a person is diagnosed with dementia, it’s very common for them to be anxious about what the future holds for them. Anxiety can onset and worsen for that person as they become more confused by the world around them.

What Connects Dementia and Depression?

The connection between dementia and depression also goes both ways. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania and Aarhus University in Denmark determined through a long-term analysis of 1.4 million people that being diagnosed with depression more than doubles the likelihood of eventually receiving a dementia diagnosis. The stronger the depression symptoms, the stronger the link between depression and developing dementia. And, the research showed that taking antidepressants had no measurable impact on the likelihood of a dementia diagnosis.

After a dementia diagnosis, it can be increasingly difficult for the patient to find things to look forward to or feel joyous about. As their mind and body gradually fail them, feelings of isolation and despair can lead to chronic depression.

How to Alleviate Anxiety and Depression with Dementia

The symptoms of depression can include eating or sleeping a lot more or a lot less; feeling sad, hopeless, discouraged, and tearful; and not engaging in social activities that they used to enjoy. 

Those with dementia might also be suffering from chronic or severe pain that they don’t know how to address. This intense or constant discomfort can cause anxiety and depression in a person with dementia who might lack the problem-solving abilities needed to help themselves feel better.

Once it’s determined that the individual is truly experiencing anxiety or depression, the key to helping them is in how well the in-home caregivers know the person, says Ruth Drew, Director of Client and Information Services at the Alzheimer’s Association in Chicago. “I can’t understate the importance of the human connection. People can feel very isolated,” 

Drew suggests that in-home caregivers reintroduce activities that were pleasurable to the patient before their dementia diagnosis.

For example:

• Pets can be really meaningful if they liked pets before.
• For music lovers, music can totally turn a mood around.
• If the person went to church or has a strong faith, reading Scriptures with them can be a therapeutic activity.
• If the person is outdoorsy get them outside. If it’s too cold or hot to go outside, encourage them to be by a window.
• Let creative individuals explore painting, pottery, or some other artistic media.

Drew says these types of activities can be pursued with no other goal in mind other than to bring the dementia patient joy and comfort. “The important thing is not did they execute an activity flawlessly, but did they enjoy the process?”

Get Help Coping with Your Loved One’s Anxiety, Depression, and Dementia

If you’re supporting a loved one living with dementia, you may find that it can be hard for them to maintain their mood and mental health. 

There are completely valid reasons for someone with dementia to experience anxiety and depression. But now that you understand where some of those feelings might be coming from, it will be easier to provide empathy and compassionate support.

It’s also important to take care of yourself. With Homewatch CareGivers^®, help is a phone call away. Our dedicated professional caregivers can provide flexible respite care so that you can take some time to recharge your own batteries.

Contact Homewatch CareGivers online or call 888-404-5191 today to request a complimentary in-home consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Anxiety, Depression, and Dementia

Is anxiety an early sign of dementia?

It’s common for people recently diagnosed with dementia to feel anxious about how they will cope with their condition. Those whose condition has progressed may feel anxiety when their living situation changes or they’re forced to deviate from daily routines.

Does dementia cause anxiety and depression?

It’s common for people living with the symptoms of dementia to experience anxiety and depression. Coping with decreased cognitive abilities, increased confusion, and other challenges associated with dementia can lead to feelings of dread, hopelessness, anxiety, and depression.

Can anxiety and depression cause dementia?

Maybe. There’s some evidence that living with chronic depression (as well as chronic stress) risk factor for developing dementia. Some seniors with depression may actually have pseudodementia, a form of depression in the elderly that mimics many common symptoms of dementia such as forgetfulness, lack of concentration, and physical sluggishness. Pseudodementia can usually be treated with medication, often leading to a full return of cognitive and physical function.