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What Causes Depression In An Elderly Person With Alzheimer's Disease?
Question: Hi Dr. Ryanne,
My Stepmother who is 79 and has Alzheimer's fell when getting up from her bed the other night and has been acting depressed and disconnected since. Although we do not think that she hit her head during this fall, I know that brain injury can cause a lot of different mood issues. I also seem to remember that a bone fracture (not that we know she has one), of any kind can cause mood changes as well. Any thoughts based on this info?
My Stepmother who is 79 and has Alzheimer's fell when getting up from her bed the other night and has been acting depressed and disconnected since. Although we do not think that she hit her head during this fall, I know that brain injury can cause a lot of different mood issues. I also seem to remember that a bone fracture (not that we know she has one), of any kind can cause mood changes as well. Any thoughts based on this info?
Brief Answer:
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.
I am indeed a bit concerned given this information. Anyone over the age of 65 who has an unwitnessed fall raises concern for a headstrike and the possible consequences of this. Head injury can cause disorientation and mood changes. Overall, we would likely see more concerning symptoms if she really knocked her head significantly, but I would visit a primary care doctor for a physical exam to be safe.
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In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private link below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.
I am indeed a bit concerned given this information. Anyone over the age of 65 who has an unwitnessed fall raises concern for a headstrike and the possible consequences of this. Head injury can cause disorientation and mood changes. Overall, we would likely see more concerning symptoms if she really knocked her head significantly, but I would visit a primary care doctor for a physical exam to be safe.
Please remember to rate and close this answer thread when you are finished and satisfied.
In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private link below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
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