Thursday, July 19, 2012 NC asks

Q: Mental illness and Dementia

I am wondering if any mental illness or serious mental issues in one's earlier/current life can have impact on getting dementia? I heard that autism can have some impact on getting Alzheimer's since the brain is not normal. Of course a mild depression or a little worry here or there would not cause dementia. But what about for some people who have serious issues like aspergers and etc.? e.g., for someone who has problems getting along with families or people. I know some researchers tried to study anxiety and depression vs dementia. I know alcohol is one factor for sure.

Thanks,Nina

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Answers (1)

Carol Bradley Bursack, Health Guide

7/20/12 10:29am

Hi Nina, I know that clinical depression is thought to increase the risk of AD. There's so much that is not known about brain function in general, and AD specifically, that it's hard to tell about all mental illnesses. Severity of the illness may make a difference, as well. You're right about alcohol abuse, which is under-reported in the elderly. Alcohol abuse definitely affects the brain.

Thanks for your insight and question, as always. I hope your family is handling the loss of your father-in-law as well as can be expected.

Carol

7/20/12 10:44am

Thanks, Carol! We are doing fine. It had been a long goodbye so not so bad. My husband gets a little depressed but he has lots of work so it helps. Certainly there was some feeling that if we were there more that last week, it would help. My late FIL got very sick the last week but the nurse didn't really sound an alarm in the final days. But I know his life was not the life he wanted. Surely hope we will have the cure or prevention soon!

Regards,

Nina

Carol Bradley Bursack, Health Guide

7/20/12 10:59am

There isn't always clear evidence when the "last" is really the end. I missed the last day with my mother-in-law, and wished I'd been there, but it's nearly impossible to call it right all of the time. You and your husband did so much. Now his father is at peace.

Blessings,

Carol

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Q: Mental illness and Dementia

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