Cognitive issues are common among seniors. However, loss of memory, organizational skills, and confusion can be misdiagnosed. What many people assume is dementia could actually be senior ADHD. Though these conditions have similar symptoms, some subtle differences exist to tell them apart.

Though the two conditions aren’t identical, they are both neurological, requiring specialized treatment. Rehab for neurological diseases offers several solutions to manage many of the symptoms. These include cognitive, physical, and occupational therapies as well as recreational activities to combat the physical and mental complications.

Please note that the following information discusses only the most common correlations and differences between these conditions and is intended for educational purposes only. Seek medical professional advice if you are concerned about your own condition.

Senior woman in a wheelchair engaging in cognitive activities, highlighting therapy for ADHD and dementia in older adults.

Can Senior ADHD be Confused with Dementia?

Studies show approximately 10% of adults in the U.S. aged 65 and up have dementia. These numbers are higher for older people, reaching 35% in those in their 90s. Cognitive impairment is usually the first symptom noted with the disease.

ADHD is most often diagnosed in children, but 15.5 million adults were diagnosed with the disorder in 2023. Most were likely diagnosed before the age of 50. Though reporting the issue in seniors isn’t as common, experts believe approximately 5% of geriatric patients have undiagnosed ADHD.

Since many of the symptoms of these two conditions overlap, senior ADHD is often misdiagnosed as dementia. Knowing the similarities and differences may help you discover why your brain works as it does as you age.

Similarities

Dementia has several symptoms, with memory loss as the most common problem. Other cognitive complications associated with the condition include reduced communication, problem-solving, organization, coordination, and performing complex tasks. Those with this condition may also experience personality changes, anxiety, paranoia, and depression.

The reason those with senior ADHD are often misdiagnosed with dementia is due to similar symptoms. Those with adult ADHD may struggle with remembering events or information, completing projects, or maintaining focus. They may also have many of the same personality alterations or psychological issues as those with dementia.

After retirement, when their structured life is altered, these symptoms may worsen, becoming more noticeable as they age. This increase is usually the cause of the confusion between the two conditions. Anyone monitoring the individual with ADHD sees new symptoms instead of obstacles they’ve been coping with for years.

Differences

Though senior ADHD and dementia share similar indicators, the two conditions aren’t identical. ADHD usually begins in childhood, though it may not be diagnosed until you’re a teen or young adult. It has no clear cause, though it may result from genetics, exposure to drugs, alcohol, environmental toxins, or premature birth.

Dementia mainly occurs in seniors with sudden symptoms that worsen over time. It also has several possible causes, including high blood pressure, stroke, Lewy body disease, or traumatic brain injuries. Dementia patients often can’t give a detailed history of their symptoms, while senior ADHD patients recall the condition’s progression.

The treatments for the two conditions are also different. Both may require medication, but ADHD meds improve focus and concentration. Dementia medication slows memory loss, reduces depression, and improves cognitive function.

Resources:

  1. Columbia University Irving Medical Center, October 24, 2022, One in 10 Older Americans Has Dementia
    https://www.cuimc.columbia.edu/news/one-10-older-americans-has-dementia
  2. CDC, October 10, 2024, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnosis, Treatment, and Telehealth Use in Adults
    https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/73/wr/mm7340a1.htm?s_cid=mm7340a1_w#T1_down
  3. PubMed Central, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Older Adults: Prevalence and Possible Connections to Mild Cognitive Impairments
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3718885/
  4. Mayo Clinic, Dementia
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dementia/symptoms-causes/syc-20352013
  5. Harvard Health Publishing, April 21, 2020, Struggling with attention and organization as you age? It could be ADHD, not dementia
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/struggling-with-attention-and-organization-as-you-age-it-could-be-adhd-not-dementia-2020042119514
  6. PubMed Central, August 3, 2017, Adult ADHD Risk Factor for Dementia or Phenotypic Mimic
    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5540971/
  7. Help Guide, Treatment for Adult ADHD
    https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/adhd/treatment-for-adult-adhd
  8. Health Direct, Dementia – an overview
    https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/dementia-overview#treated
This content comprises informative and educational resources only and can not be considered as a substitute for professional health or medical guidance. Reliance on any information provided in this article is solely at your own risk. If you have any inquiries or apprehensions about your medical condition or health goals, talk with a licensed physician or healthcare provider.