This article describes the history of this term and lists the characteristics and symptoms of pseudodementia.
You’ll learn the difference between dementia and pseudodementia and the role that depression plays.
You’ll also find out how healthcare providers screen for, diagnose, and treat this condition.
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It’s hard to classify exactly what pseudodementia is.
Plus, its name is misleading.
That’s why some professionals advocate stopping using this term altogether.
What Are the Symptoms of Pseudodementia?
Executive functioning impacts the ability to make decisions, as well as plan and organize ideas.
Experiencing Both Dementia and Depression
Older adults are at an increased risk of experiencing dementia and depression.
To complicate things, they can also experience a combination of dementia and depression.
So, how do you tell the difference between depression and dementia?
Screening and Diagnosis
There are many different opinions out there about the idea of pseudodementia.
The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) is a screening instrument used to detect depression among older adults.
If depression is detected, it can be treated alongside other disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Pseudodementia has become an important factor to consider in the care and treatment of older adults.
See a healthcare provider when symptoms of dementia or depression become apparent.
2017;7(2):230239.
