Which finding in an older adult is most suggestive of depression rather than dementia?

Correct answer: A. The patient reports memory difficulty and gives up during testing

  • A. The patient reports memory difficulty and gives up during testing
  • B. The patient gradually loses orientation over several years
  • C. The patient has impaired recognition of familiar family members
  • D. The patient shows progressive difficulty managing personal care

Explanation

A person with depression may report memory problems and make little effort during testing, sometimes called depressive pseudodementia. Progressive disorientation, loss of recognition, and declining self-care are more consistent with a cognitive disorder.

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About Mental Health of Children and Older Adults

Mental health care for children and older adults requires age-appropriate assessment, communication, family involvement, and recognition of developmental changes. Coverage includes ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, childhood anxiety and depression, dementia, delirium, late-life depression, suicide risk, and the distinction between normal aging and cognitive disorder.

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