Are people with ADHD more likely to develop dementia? This is a question that researchers have been investigating in recent years. Let’s look at what the latest studies tell us.
Several large studies have found a link between ADHD and increased risk of dementia later in life. One Swedish study that looked at over 2 million people found that parents of individuals with ADHD were 34% more likely to develop any type of dementia, and 55% more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease specifically[5]. This suggests there may be some shared genetic or environmental factors between ADHD and dementia.
Another study published in 2023 found that adults with untreated ADHD had about three times the rate of dementia compared to people without ADHD[1][2]. However, interestingly, people with ADHD who were taking stimulant medications did not have an increased dementia risk compared to those without ADHD[1][2]. This hints that treating ADHD may help reduce dementia risk, though more research is needed to confirm this.
It’s important to note that having ADHD doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get dementia. Many other factors influence dementia risk, like overall health, exercise, diet, and genetics. The link between ADHD and dementia is still being studied, and we don’t fully understand the connection yet.
Some researchers think the link could be due to shared risk factors or brain differences associated with both conditions. Others suggest that the cognitive challenges of living with untreated ADHD over many years might contribute to increased dementia risk[1].
While these findings may sound concerning, there’s also some potentially good news. The studies showing increased dementia risk were mostly in people with untreated ADHD. Getting proper treatment for ADHD, including medication when appropriate, may help reduce this risk[1][2].
Additionally, many of the things that are good for brain health in general may be especially important for people with ADHD. This includes regular exercise, a healthy diet, good sleep habits, staying mentally and socially active, and managing other health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
In conclusion, current research suggests that people with ADHD, especially if untreated, may have a somewhat higher risk of developing dementia later in life. However, this risk isn’t inevitable. Proper treatment of ADHD and a brain-healthy lifestyle may help reduce the risk. As always, it’s best to talk to your doctor about your individual health concerns and the best ways to maintain your cognitive health as you age.
