Depression or Dementia

It is never wise to assume that a loss of mental sharpness is just a normal sign of old age. It could be a sign of depression or dementia, both of which are very common in the elderly. But since depression and dementia share many similar symptoms, including memory problems, sluggish speech and movements, and low motivation, it can be difficult to tell the two apart. There are, however, some differences that can help you distinguish between the two. 

Some symptoms of Dementia include:

- The senior’s mental decline happens slow
- Is confused and disoriented; becomes lost in familiar locations including their    own neighborhood
- The senior has difficulty with short-term memory
- The senior’s writing, speaking, and motor skills are impaired

Some symptoms of Depression include:

            - Mental decline is relatively rapid
            - The person knows the correct time, date, and where they are
            - Has difficulty concentrating or focusing on anything
            - Speech and motor skills are slow, but still normal
            - The senior may notice and/or worry about their memory problems

Whether the decline in cognitive skills is caused by Dementia or Depression, the senior citizen needs immediate professional help by a qualified physician.  If the senior is suffering from Depression, immediate treatment will help their memory, concentration and energy return to a normal level so the senior can regain their quality of life.  If the senior is afflicted with Dementia, immediate treatment will help improve the quality of life for them and their loved ones.  In some types of Dementia, the symptoms can be reversed, halted, or slowed.