140- Is It ADHD—or Age? Recognizing and Treating ADHD in Midlife and Beyond
Apr 19, 2016
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Linda Roggli, author and coach specializing in ADHD for women, dives deep into recognizing ADHD in older adults. She discusses how symptoms can mimic age-related forgetfulness and the importance of accurate diagnosis. The conversation touches on the emotional experience of late ADHD diagnoses, practical lifestyle tips for adults over 45, and navigating specialized ADHD care and treatments. Roggli also highlights how hormones and medications, including the role of Vitamin D3, can influence ADHD symptoms, making it essential to manage care with informed advocacy.
Adults with ADHD often remain undiagnosed, as symptoms can be mistaken for normal age-related cognitive decline and forgetfulness.
Hormonal changes during menopause significantly impact ADHD symptoms in women, emphasizing the need for tailored evaluations and treatment plans.
Receiving a late diagnosis of ADHD can evoke complex emotions, serving as an opportunity for individuals to reassess life goals and aspirations.
Deep dives
Understanding Adult ADHD Prevalence
Research indicates that a significant portion of adults with ADHD remain undiagnosed, with upwards of 75% unaware of their condition. The speaker emphasizes that ADHD symptoms can often be mistaken for normal age-related cognitive decline, leading to misinterpretation of forgetfulness and mental fog as signs of dementia or Alzheimer's. Studies have shown that ADHD prevalence in adults ages 44 to 85 is around 3.3%, which is notably lower than childhood statistics. Notably, as individuals age, they may develop compensatory strategies that mask their ADHD symptoms, complicating accurate diagnosis.
The Impact of Hormones on ADHD
Hormonal changes, particularly during menopause, can significantly affect ADHD symptoms in women. Estrogen, for instance, is known to enhance neurotransmitter function, and its levels fluctuate dramatically during menopause, often exacerbating ADHD symptoms. The discussion highlights how stable estrogen levels can improve cognitive function and emotional regulation, while declines in estrogen lead to increased ADHD challenges. Men, on the other hand, also experience declines in testosterone, which creates a different but related set of cognitive issues, particularly concerning mood and cognitive function.
Differentiating ADHD from Cognitive Decline
Distinguishing between ADHD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is complex due to overlapping symptoms such as memory decline and executive function. However, unlike ADHD, MCI typically represents significant functional decline with potential progression to Alzheimer's disease. The key difference lies in the history of symptoms; ADHD is chronic and usually evident from childhood, whereas MCI can represent a significant recent change. It is essential for older adults experiencing cognitive issues to seek proper evaluation to differentiate between these conditions effectively.
Treatment Challenges for Older Adults with ADHD
Less than half of adults diagnosed with ADHD over the age of 45 have sought treatment, with many feeling that their symptoms are merely part of aging. Stimulant medications, while effective, present potential risks such as cardiovascular effects, necessitating careful consideration in older adults. Additionally, interactions with other medications for age-related health issues further complicate effective treatment plans. It is crucial for individuals to communicate openly with their healthcare providers about all medications they are taking to tailor ADHD treatment safely.
The Emotional Journey of an ADHD Diagnosis
Receiving an ADHD diagnosis later in life often evokes a range of emotional responses, from relief to regret. Many individuals express feelings of having missed opportunities throughout their lives due to undiagnosed ADHD. This acknowledgment can serve as a powerful catalyst for change, allowing individuals to rethink their life priorities and pursue unfulfilled dreams. Engaging in practices like coaching or therapy can support individuals in navigating their ADHD-related challenges while embracing a hopeful and fulfilling future.
ADHD is not a childhood disorder. But, in older adults, symptoms may be difficult to differentiate from the forgetfulness and "brain fog" that often come with age. Linda Roggli explains how, and shares treatment advice for ADHDers over the age of 55.
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