01/02/2026
Cognitive Impairment vs. Depression: How to Tell the Difference in Older Adults 🧠
Not all memory loss is dementia — sometimes, it’s depression.
In seniors, depression can quietly mimic cognitive decline, making it easy to confuse the two.
💡Here’s the difference:
• Depression-related cognitive changes may appear suddenly, fluctuate day to day, and improve with emotional support or treatment.
• Dementia-related changes tend to be gradual, progressive, and affect memory, reasoning, and daily functioning over time.
Signs like withdrawal, lack of motivation, trouble concentrating, or seeming “checked out” aren’t always memory loss — they can be signs of emotional distress that deserve just as much care and attention.
At Supportive Care, we believe mental and emotional well-being are just as important as physical health. Our team supports residents through compassionate care, engagement, and individualized support that helps improve quality of life — not just manage symptoms.💚
If you’re unsure what your resident or loved one may be experiencing, we’re here to help.
📩 Reach out to learn how our services can support your community.⤵️
Info@thesupportivecare.com