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ADHD linked to higher dementia risk in aging
Study shows people with ADHD four times more likely to develop dementia later in life.
In brief
Study shows people with ADHD four times more likely to develop dementia later in life. People with ADHD are up to four times more likely to develop dementia or memory problems in old age compared to those without the disorder, according to a major study. Originally reported by Dailymail.
ADHD and dementia risk
People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADHD, are significantly more likely to develop dementia, a study suggests.
Study findings
The study tracked 187,341 older adults over ten years, finding 6.7 per cent of those with ADHD developed memory problems compared to 3.4 per cent without.
Risk increase
When adjusted for age, the increased risk doubled to four-fold, with three-fold risk for dementia diagnoses alone.
Possible causes
Experts suggest factors like poor diet, sleep problems, physical inactivity, and known memory risks may link ADHD to dementia.
Study limitations
The study was observational and cannot prove ADHD itself causes dementia, though it supports ADHD as a relevant factor in later-life cognitive health.
Previous research
Separate research published in 2023 also found adults diagnosed with ADHD had an almost three-times greater risk of developing dementia.
Theories
Researchers suggest ADHD may reduce 'cognitive reserve' or increase exposure to cumulative risk factors for cognitive impairment.
Cognitive reserve
One theory is that ADHD impacts the brain's ability to complete tasks after aging, known as cognitive reserve.
Cumulative risks
Another theory is that ADHD increases exposure to chronic stress, sleep problems, physical inactivity, poor diet, heart risks, and substance use.
Dementia statistics
Almost one million Britons live with dementia, which claims 76,000 lives annually in the UK.
ADHD prevalence
The UK estimates 2.5 million people have ADHD, with about 741,000 children and young people aged five to 24 diagnosed.
Diagnosis trends
Diagnoses of ADHD have risen 20-fold over two decades in the UK.
Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle reduces dementia risk, including balanced diet, exercise, healthy weight, no smoking, and blood pressure control.
Alzheimer's Society
The Alzheimer's Society partners with the Daily Mail in Defeating Dementia Campaign to increase early diagnosis and improve care.
Dementia support
For confidential advice, call Alzheimer's Society's Dementia Support Line on 0333 150 3456.
Symptom check
The Alzheimer's Society offers a symptom checklist to help identify early dementia signs.
What to remember
People with ADHD are up to four times more likely to develop dementia or memory problems in old age compared to those without the disorder, according to a major study.
