Alzheimer's Society comment on Age Concern research into depression in older people
Published 12 August 2008
It is a huge concern that more than two million older people who show symptoms of depression are not receiving help and support. It is important to seek help if you have symptoms of depression.
A proper assessment is also needed to rule out underlying conditions that may cause depression, such as dementia. As many as two thirds of people with dementia do not receive a diagnosis.
Symptoms of depression mirror the early symptoms of dementia, including memory loss, confusion, mood changes and speech problems. It is vital to establish if symptoms are due to dementia, so that you can receive appropriate advice and support. People with dementia often tell us that a proper diagnosis was a huge relief and the starting of getting back in control.
If you are concerned about your memory, or that of a friend or relative, you can download a copy of Alzheimer's Society's 'Worried About Your Memory?' publication from alzheimers.org.uk/memoryworry, or call Alzheimer's Society dementia helpline on 0845 300 0336.
Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society
ENDS
People concerned about their memory should seek advice and help if the following occur:
- It's a struggle to remember recent events, although they can easily recall things that happened in the past
- It's hard to follow conversations or programmes on TV
- Regularly forgetting the names of friends or everyday objects
- Inability to recall things heard, seen or read
- Difficulty in making decisions
- Repeat themselves in conversation or lose the thread of what they are saying
- Have problems thinking and reasoning
- Feel anxious and depressed or angry about their forgetfulness
- Find that other people start to comment on their forgetfulness.
Reference
Older people with depression are being denied help because of their age, according to a report by Age Concern. The report found people seeking help are often fobbed off, misdiagnosed or given inappropriate treatment. Doctors may issue prescriptions for drugs like Prozac, when counselling would offer more benefit. And the numbers given psychological help are far lower than in the general population. The study, from Age Concern, said more than two million people over the age of 65 in England have symptoms of depression, but the vast majority are denied help.
Notes to editors:
- 1 in 3 people over 65 will die with dementia.
- 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051. 1 in 6 people over 80 have dementia.
- Alzheimer's Society campaigns for and champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions who care for them. Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
- As a charity, Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to care for people today and to find a cure for tomorrow. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or by visiting alzheimers.org.uk.
- The Alzheimer's Society Dementia Helpline number is 0845 300 0336.
