Depression, anxiety and their ties to early dementia or mild cognitive impairment.

Many people diagnosed with early dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) often suffer from concomitant depression and anxiety disorders. In some cases these disorders may be related to difficulties adjusting to their diagnosis and associated cognitive problems. Successful adjustment and alleviation of depression and anxiety symptoms in these people is of critical importance for quality of life and may also help prevent, or delay, further cognitive decline.

Bridget Regan of the AUGM with the SPHPM has reviewed a variety of psychosocial interventions aimed at stopping or slowing cognitive decline. Of the studies eligible to be included in the review several studies showed promising results with the treatment of depression in older adults with early dementia using problem solving and modified cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) approaches.

While more research is needed, several studies have demonstrated positive results in the treatment of early demetia using problem solving and modified cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) approaches. These techniques could represent a novel approach to slowing or stopping the onset of early dementia.