Depressive Symptoms

Seen in up to 40% of AD patients; may precede onset of AD
Signs include sadness, loss of interest in usual activities, anxiety, and irritability
Suspect if patient stops eating or withdraws
May cause acceleration of decline if untreated
Recreational programs and activity therapies have shown positive results
See Table 4 for medications most commonly used to treat depressive features of behavioral disturbances in dementia; first-line agents are SSRIs, preferred for more favorable adverse-event profiles.