Are there links between depression and Alzheimer's?

Myra22 asked...

Are there any links between depression and Alzheimer's disease?

Expert Answer

Dr. William J. Netzer, Research Associate, Fisher Center for Alzheimer's Disease Research laboratory at The Rockefeller University. Dr. Netzer's long-term goal is to discover molecules within brain cells that would act as therapeutic targets for drugs aimed at treating Alzheimer's disease. For a full bio on Dr. Netzer and his major findings, please visit: www.ALZinfo.org/Netzer

Depression in the elderly is a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. It is not known whether depression causes Alzheimer's in some people or whether it is an early manifestation of Alzheimer's. Nevertheless, doctors recommend that depression in elderly patients be treated and not left to simmer.