Study Links Depression to Higher Dementia Risk, Finds Specific Symptoms Most Predictive

People experiencing depression could face a higher risk of developing dementia later in life, according to new research published in The Lancet Psychiatry. The study tracked more than 5,800 adults over roughly 25 years, measuring depressive symptoms in midlife and later dementia diagnoses.

Researchers found that about 10% of participants developed dementia during the study period. The strongest connections weren't linked to depression as a whole, but to specific symptoms that showed up years earlier.

Five symptoms emerged as the most predictive: loss of confidence, difficulty coping with problems, persistent anxiety, trouble concentrating, and emotional withdrawal. These indicators in midlife appeared to carry the greatest risk for later cognitive decline.