Depression and Dementia

Paper Summary:

Dementia coexisting with depression increases the challenges for the elderly and their caregivers. Pharmacological, behavioral, or social support interventions may delay the need for nursing home placement or institutionalization. This paper examines how the best approach to treatment is a combination of therapies which may provide help and support to the caregiver as well as manage symptoms. It proposes a study to determine whether patients with coexisting depression and dementia can be effectively treated with less inpatient care.

Outline
Introduction
Background and Significance
Preliminary Studies
Research Methodology
Human Subjects Protocol
Administration and Timetable
Limitations of this Study

From the Paper:

"Dementia associated with depression increases challenges for the elderly and their caregivers. Many individuals with AD become depressed because they are aware of loosing their cognitive abilities and because of life circumstances and environmental changes. Research studies continue to work towards developing a cure or treatment strategies for AD and related dementias; however, depression often goes undiagnosed. Depression coexisting with dementia accelerates loss of autonomy (Ritchie & Lovestone, 2002, p. 8). Undiagnosed depression in people with AD and other dementias is a problem, especially since depression is treatable."

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