Alzheimer’s Disease: A Closer Look at Mental Health Symptoms
One of the most well-known consequences of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the decline in memory and other thinking abilities. However, what many people may not realize is that individuals with this condition also often experience mental health symptoms such as agitation, depression, apathy, and sleep disturbances. These symptoms can have a significant impact on both the patient and their families’ quality of life.
Recently, researchers at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine conducted a study that sheds light on the connection between the pathology of AD and emotional and behavioral symptoms. They found that as individuals with AD experience a decline in memory and thinking abilities, their mental health tends to worsen.
Lead author, Michael Alosco, PhD, an associate professor of neurology, emphasized the importance of understanding and managing these earlier symptoms. Early detection and intervention could help improve the overall well-being of those affected by AD.
The study involved participants from the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center, a database that supports research on AD and related dementias. These individuals underwent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis to identify markers of AD, as well as memory testing and assessments of dementia severity and mental health symptoms reported by caregivers or family members.
The results revealed that higher levels of proteins associated with AD predicted various mental health symptoms, independent of cognitive impairments. This suggests that the emotional and behavioral changes seen in individuals with AD may be directly linked to underlying brain changes related to the disease.
Furthermore, the researchers observed that greater mental health symptoms and memory difficulties were associated with greater impairments in daily functioning, particularly in individuals with more advanced stages of AD. This highlights the need for a holistic approach to treatment that addresses both cognitive and emotional aspects of the disease.
According to Brandon Frank, PhD, assistant professor of neurology and first author of the study, cognitive rehabilitation may be beneficial in helping individuals with AD cope with memory difficulties and improve their overall well-being.
The findings of this study have been published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, providing valuable insights into the complex relationship between AD, cognitive decline, and mental health symptoms. By gaining a better understanding of these connections, healthcare professionals can develop more effective strategies for managing the diverse challenges faced by individuals affected by AD.
