Taking Control: The ADHD Podcast
Aging Out Loud: Rethinking ADHD in Later Life with Dr. Kathleen Nadeau
May 15, 2025
Dr. Kathleen Nadeau, founder of the Chesapeake Center and author of 'Still Distracted After All These Years', dives into the often-overlooked topic of ADHD in older adults. She discusses the impact of aging on ADHD, including loss of structure and increasing isolation. Kathleen highlights the importance of community support, the connection between sleep disturbances and cognitive health, and advocates for better resources and awareness for this demographic. Her insights mix nuance with humor, emphasizing resilience and the potential for reinvention.
46:01
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Quick takeaways
- As older adults with ADHD lose structured environments post-retirement, they may face increased isolation and heightened symptoms requiring support networks.
- Hormonal changes in aging women significantly influence ADHD symptoms, underscoring the need for integrated health approaches including hormone therapy.
Deep dives
The Impact of Aging on ADHD
ADHD remains consistent throughout adulthood, but the challenges associated with it shift as individuals age. Older adults with ADHD often face unique circumstances, such as increased social isolation and the loss of structured environments, which can exacerbate their symptoms and lead to difficulties in daily functioning. For example, many older adults may find themselves alone after retirement, potentially resulting in a lack of motivation and support for daily tasks, which can heighten feelings of depression. This structural support is crucial as many individuals with ADHD benefit from an organized routine, and without it, they are at risk of exacerbating their symptoms.
