Be aware of signs of depression and dementia

PEOPLE should look out for signs of depression and dementia among older family members and friends over Christmas, a health chief has said.

Professor Alistair Burns, NHS England’s national clinical director for dementia and older people’s mental health, said problems that may have previously been hidden can come to the surface or be easier to spot as friends and families get together over the festive season.

Depression should not be written off as inevitable in old age and can be treated effectively, while emotional changes can also be the first indication that someone has dementia, he said.

Anyone who is concerned about a friend or loved one should listen carefully and sympathetically to their concerns, and encourage them to get help and get checked out by their GP.

Prof Burns said: “Dementia is an insidious disease that develops slowly and may go unnoticed in people we see every day. As families and friends get together over Christmas, there is an opportunity to spot warning signs that may have been missed.

“There are lots of reasons why people might be forgetful or absent-minded at such a busy time of the year but it could also be the sign that something can be wrong.

“Getting a diagnosis - whether it is for depression or dementia - is the first step in accessing the best help and support.”