ADHD in Adults Linked to Higher Dementia Risk
Key Takeaways
- A new study indicates that adults with ADHD are nearly three times more susceptible to developing dementia.
- The research, spanning 17 years and involving over 100,000 older participants in Israel, offers vital insights into the long-term implications of ADHD in the aging population.
A 17-year research project in Israel involving over 100,000 older people discovered a significant link between ADHD in adults and dementia onset. The results showed that individuals with ADHD were approximately three times more likely to be diagnosed with dementia than those without this condition.
According to Dr. Michal Schnaider Beeri from Rutgers University, who was instrumental in the study, the underlying mechanisms are yet to be definitively established. Nonetheless, initial interpretations suggest that ADHD might interfere with the brain’s ability to counteract cognitive decline in later life.
Medical professionals are now advising increased vigilance. People who exhibit ADHD-like symptoms should see a doctor, as recognizing and treating these symptoms could help prevent dementia.
The study also hints at the potential benefits of ADHD treatments. Specifically, psychostimulants could modify cognitive impairment trajectories, reducing dementia risks. However, the definitive role of these medications in risk mitigation requires further investigation.
Sources
- Adults with ADHD are at increased risk for developing dementia. (2023, October 23). ScienceDaily.
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/10/231017123517.htm