Enhancing the understanding of cognitive impairment in late-life depression
10.3760/cma.j.cn113661-20240715-00238
- VernacularTitle:关注老年抑郁症患者的认知障碍
- Author:
Mingfeng YANG
1
;
Yuping NING
1
Author Information
1. 广州医科大学附属脑科医院老年神经科学中心，广州 510370
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Depressive disorder;
The elderly;
Cognition
- From:
Chinese Journal of Psychiatry
2024;57(10):632-636
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Late-life depression (LLD) is a common mental disorder among the elderly, characterized by a high incidence rate, low recognition rates, and a high risk of progression to dementia. LLD patients generally exhibit varying cognitive impairment, particularly in executive function and processing speed. The article provides an in-depth analysis of the potential pathological mechanisms underlying cognitive impairment in LLD, including prefrontal network dysfunction, cerebrovascular damage, and Alzheimer′s disease-related pathological changes. Regarding treatment, antidepressants can improve some cognitive functions but are limited in executive function. Targeted therapies addressing the pathological mechanisms of cognitive impairment in LLD show potential value but require further research. Given the high heterogeneity of LLD, future studies should focus on unraveling its pathological heterogeneity to achieve more precise individualized treatment strategies. This approach aims to improve the quality of life for LLD patients and reduce the risk of progression to dementia.
