I’ve been treating ADHD in the elderly, let’s say people over 60 for decades, which is why this Wall Street Journal, article on An Unexpected New Diagnosis in Older Adults: ADHD caught my attention.
ADHD in the Elderly
It’s a myth that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) only occurs in children. A myth perpetuated by unwarranted requirements in the diagnostic manual that symptoms must appear prior to the age of 11. The fact is that the symptoms of ADHD can appear at any age, and when they do, they deserve to be treated.
The oldest person I ever treated for ADHD was 86. Once he discovered that what had been holding him back his entire life was not the depression he and his doctors had ascribed it to for decades but rather ADHD; once he got off the anti-depressants he’d been talking, without benefit for decades; and once he comprehended the magnitude of ADHD and how it impacted all elements of his life, this new knowledge filled him up with hope. No longer did he see himself as incapable of achieving his lifelong dream of writing a novel.
Luckily, the stimulant medication I prescribed for him worked, and worked brilliantly. It caused no side effects, other than appetite suppression, which he was able to deal with simply by eating even when he wasn’t very hungry.
A New Lease on Life
With the new lease on the life that the diagnosis of, education about, and medication for ADHD provided, this man was able, at last, to write the novel he’d been wanting to write for 50 years. He was able to die with his dream fulfilled.
This is just one of many stories I could tell about diagnosing ADHD for the first time in a person over 60, and treating it with stimulant medication. The most overlooked group is women. But older men routinely get missed as well.
As long as the doctor monitors possible side effects, like weight loss, elevated heart rate or elevated blood pressure, as well as insomnia, agitation, or general unpleasant feelings, it is entirely safe to prescribe stimulants to people of any age. More than safe, 80% of the time it is hugely beneficial.
Making Sure The Diagnosis is Accurate
You just want to be sure the diagnosis is accurate. It takes a careful and experienced doctor to tell ADHD in the elderly from early Alzheimer’s or other dementing process; depression; anxiety disorders; anemia; hypothyroidism; or other medical conditions that can confuse the picture.
But if you have a good doctor, keep in mind the possibility of ADHD before you accept far more dire diagnoses like dementia, depression, or encephalopathy.
As I’ve said many times. ADHD is a good news diagnosis. Once you find out you have it—no matter what you age might be—you life can only improve.
Learn More
ADHD in the Elderly: Diagnosis and Treatment – What You Should Know
Think you might have ADHD? Click here to learn How The Hallowell Centers Can Help You. Getting started is easy. Book a free 15-minute patient care consult at one of our Hallowell Center locations.
If you’re an adult who thinks you may have ADHD, read here to learn why it’s important to get a diagnosis.
