Which symptom of depression is more commonly seen in older adults than younger adults?

Cognitive impairment is a symptom of depression that is more frequently observed in older adults than in their younger counterparts. In this demographic, depression can often manifest as confusion, memory problems, or difficulties with concentration, which may be mistaken for normal age-related cognitive decline or even dementia. This can complicate the diagnosis, as it’s essential to differentiate between true cognitive decline due to aging, neurodegenerative conditions, and cognitive issues stemming from depressive disorders.

In contrast, while loss of interest in usual activities, inattention to personal hygiene, and hopelessness are significant symptoms of depression across all age groups, these symptoms can present similarly in both older and younger individuals. However, cognitive impairment stands out as a manifestation that tends to be more pronounced in older adults, warranting careful assessment and targeted interventions in this population to address both the depression and any underlying cognitive issues effectively.