ADHD in the Elderly

Consider bringing your older relative to a CHADD meeting or an ADHD conference. If they like to read, purchase a book on ADHD. Driven to Distraction, by Drs. Edward Hallowell and John Ratey is a great choice. It is also available on tape.

If you're a senior and are wondering whether your symptoms might be attributed to possible ADHD, seek out a specialist who works with adults and consider having an evaluation. Contact your primary care physician to first have a complete medical workup to rule out any medical conditions that can mimic ADHD. If you're cleared of any, ask for a referral to psychiatrist, neurologist or other health or mental health professional that has a lot of experience evaluating adults with ADHD. If your doctor draws a blank, call your closest teaching hospital and ask for the department of psychiatry or psychology and ask for names.

You can also contact CHADD and ask the chapter coordinator in your area for names. You can also call them at 800-233-4050 to find the chapter closest to you.

In addition, you can find online directories of ADHD specialists:

http://www.addconsults.com/

http://www.add.org/

http://www.chadd.org/

Make sure you ask many questions, including how many adults with ADHD they evaluate and if they have experience working with the older population.

It's never too late to improve your life!