Depressive disorder in alzheimerʹs disease patients. Different aspects in the early and late stages

Summary sion associated with dementia is a significant problem. It can result in worsening of cognition, more caregiver stress and, at least, early institutionalization of the patient. However, depression in persons with dementia has received limited interest despite the fact that it is a potentially treatable condition. In this paper the relationship between depression and functional abilities in 90 Alzheimerʹs disease (AD) patients was investigated. The frequency of depression was 30 %. The mean values of basic and instrumental activities of daily living were significantly (p < 0.01) more impaired in depressed mild-moderately demented patients in comparison with non depressed ones, while no differences were observed in severely demented patients. These data are suggestive for the capability of treating depression and improving functional status in dementia.