Life-long depression
New research finds life-long depression may increase the risk of vascular dementia; the type caused by decreased blood flow to the brain.
However, depression that begins late in life is more likely to be an early symptom of Alzheimer’s.
Experts say these findings suggest treating depression in middle age may reduce the risk of dementia later in life.
They also hope Alzheimer’s could be diagnosed earlier if doctors note the sudden onset of depression in older age.
