Relação entre depressão e sintomas depressivos com demência em pessoas idosas: revisão de literatura

Abstract

Introduction: The current demographic transition leads to an increase in chronic degenerative diseases in the elderly population, including dementia. The prevalence of depressive symptoms in this population is recognized, which can accelerate the evolution of cognitive decline. Objective: This study aims to verify whether there is a relationship between depression and/or depressive symptoms and dementia. Methods: Was performed literature review of articles in the databases: SciELO, COCHRANE, PEDro, LILACS and PubMed, without period restrictions. The terms used in the searches were related to elderly people, dementia, depression and depressive symptoms. Results: Were selected 7 articles from the PubMed database. The diagnosis of dementia was mostly made through neuropsychological tests with psychologists or neurologists and classification by DSM-IV, and the diagnosis of depressive symptoms and/or depression were done through of screening instruments. In general, studies showed that depression/depressive symptoms increase the risk of developing dementia. Conclusion: This review shows the association of depressive symptoms with dementia and some mechanisms involved in this relationship. Therefore, see the importance of an adequate assessment for beneficial guidance for prevention and treatment, for lifestyle changes with the aim of preventing the development and/or advancement of dementia.