Many seniors suffer from ADHD, but very few receive the diagnosis despite symptoms: which is problematic because they are at increased risk of dementia, type 2 diabetes or hypertension.
- ADHD usually begins in childhood, but it can persist into older ages.
- A large number of adults aged 50 and older exhibit symptoms of ADHD. But many of them have not received a diagnosis or treatment.
- The author of the work calls for better knowledge and management of ADHD in seniors.
Attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD) is often associated with children. But if it appears during childhood, it can also affect adults, including seniors. A recent study carried out by a doctoral student from the University ofÖrebro (Sweden) highlights the need for better care for people over 50 with ADHD. Especially since they have an increased risk of several diseases as they age compared to their peers without disorders.
THE ADHD is underdiagnosed in seniors
Maja Dobrosavljevic notes in his thesis that this neurodevelopmental disorder is undervalued in those over 50. In addition, very few have received treatment. She writes : “a considerable number of older adults report high levels of ADHD symptoms, while the prevalence of treated ADHD is less than half the prevalence of clinically diagnosed ADHD.”
The findings are based on international registry data and studies of more than 20 million people, including 41,000 diagnosed with ADHD.
“One of the reasons many older people go undiagnosed is that symptoms are often confused with the natural process of aging or the early stages of dementia”specifies the scientist in a press release from his university published on September 20, 2023.
ADHD: increased risk of disease after age 50
Researches of the young graduate also found that adults with ADHD have a higher risk of developing a number of age-related conditions. They are more likely to suffer from dementia, high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke, type 2 diabetes and obesity.
“People with ADHD were at significantly higher risk of developing dementia and mild cognitive impairment, which affected their ability to remember, take in and process information,” adds Maja Dobrosavljevic.
Additionally, other psychiatric conditions and substance abuse also increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease in people with ADHD. “This is something doctors may need to consider in combination with other risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as smoking, high blood pressure and diabetes.“
ADHD and seniors: we need to raise awareness about this disorder
For the author of the thesis, it is essential to communicate with health professionals and the general public about the presence of the disease among seniors.
“Raising awareness of ADHD in this age group is important because it allows for proper diagnosis and adequate treatment for more people. By doing so, we can prevent them from developing serious health problems later in life.”she concludes.
According to’Harvard Hospitalthe most common symptoms in seniors suffering from attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity (ADHD) are :
- a disorganization: they may also have poor time management;
- of the forgetfulness, memorization problems;
- of the difficulty planning and completing tasks;
- of the concentration problems;
- a restlessness, impatience;
- a difficulty paying attention during conversations;
- a difficulty maintaining relationships;
- a inability to sit still for a long time.
