Can patients with depression develop dementia?
Alzheimer's disease is commonly referred to as senile dementia, and patients with depression may develop Alzheimer's disease. It is recommended to actively treat and control the condition under a doctor's guidance. A detailed analysis is as follows:
Depression may cause symptoms such as slowed thinking and associative processes, dull reactions, slow movements, lethargy, unwillingness to engage in activities, and social withdrawal. In severe cases, patients may become unable to communicate normally, refusing to eat, move, or speak. Without timely and effective treatment, this can lead to declining memory and impaired cognitive function, resulting in degenerative changes in the central nervous system that may trigger the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
Patients are advised to actively seek treatment under medical supervision. Most patients can effectively control their symptoms and regain normal work and daily living abilities.