Late-Life Depression Linked to Early Parkinson's or Lewy Body Dementia, Study Finds
A Danish study following 17,711 people over 12 years found that depression is more common years before a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease or Lewy body dementia, with rates rising about eight years prior and remaining elevated after diagnosis, strongest for Lewy body dementia. By comparing with rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, and osteoporosis, researchers suggest the link isn’t solely due to disability. The study shows association, not causation, and supports screening older adults with new or late-onset depression for early neurodegenerative signs to enable earlier care and research.
