Examining Depression Symptoms With/Without Coexisting Anxiety Symptoms in Community-Dwelling Persons With Dementia
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Authors
Sibley, Alexandra A.
Sreshtha, Srijana
Lipovac-Dew, Martha
Kunik, Mark E.
Issue Date
2021
Type
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Depression and anxiety are common in persons with dementia (PWD) and associated with poor outcomes. We explored frequency, pharmacologic management and mental health service use in PWD and depression symptoms with/without coexisting anxiety symptoms. The sample comprised 160 community-dwelling PWD in a trial to prevent development of aggression. Baseline data on depression and anxiety symptoms, psychotropic medications and mental health service use were examined. Regarding participants, 65 (41%) lacked clinically significant depression or anxiety symptoms, 45 (28%) had depression symptoms, 43 (27%) had depression and anxiety symptoms, and 7 (4%) had anxiety symptoms. Comorbid anxiety was associated with more severe depression symptoms. One third with depression symptoms and one half with depression and anxiety symptoms were taking an antidepressant. Mental health service use was very low, regardless of depression symptom severity or coexisting anxiety. Research needs to evaluate therapies for depressed PWD, but treatment of those with comorbid anxiety and depression is more urgent.
Description
9 pages.
Citation
Sibley, Alexandra A, et al. “Examining Depression Symptoms With/Without Coexisting Anxiety Symptoms in Community-Dwelling Persons With Dementia.” Wheaton College Digital Repository, SagePub, 2021, https://digitalrepository.wheatoncollege.edu/handle/11040/34568.
Publisher
SagePub