It is commonly known that Alzheimer’s is associated with memory deficits, but did you know that changes in mood can precede other symptoms? A recent study by Masters, Morris, and Roe (2014) suggests that behavioral changes, such as depression, irritability, or anxiety, precede other signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s (i.e., memory deficits). According to the study, which followed individuals over the course of seven years, those who developed Dementia had twice the risk of developing depression before any other symptoms. Further, the symptoms appeared in consistent phases, beginning with irritability, depression, and nighttime behavior changes, and were later followed by anxiety. Though researchers are not yet able to identify a causal link between these behaviors and Alzheimers, this better understanding of the course of Alzheimer’s could one day lead to earlier interventions.
If you suspect a loved one may be experiencing behavioral changes, or have concerns about your current memory functioning, neuropsychological testing is one way to assess for the cognitive deficits that accompany the onset of Alzheimer’s and other cognitive impairments, such as Dementia. Dr. Ermshar, Specialized Psychological Services, routinely conducts such evaluations; for more information, please see our website.