Avera Behavioral Management
 
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Assessment and Treatment of Depression and Apathy
 
 
  • Depression syndromes are seen in nearly 50% of individuals with dementia.
  • Depression may have a new onset in dementia, or it may represent a recurrence of previous illness.
  • Standard treatment includes psychotherapeutic techniques and antidepressant medications. Impaired sleep and appetite are frequent target symptoms.
  • Apathy is a common syndrome associated with dementia; it is characterized by lack of motivation. The presence of apathy does not imply an underlying diagnosis of depression.