Increased awareness of ADHD has led to more seniors being diagnosed with this common disorder. Often, this is due to a family member, such as a grandchild, being diagnosed, and suddenly, all of those quirky behaviors a senior exhibits suddenly make sense. In other cases, a senior’s family members may urge him or her to discuss symptoms such as forgetfulness with a doctor out of the fear they indicate age-related cognitive decline. No matter how a senior receives a diagnosis, there’s one thing for certain: ADHD can have a profound effect on his or her life.
Overlapping Symptoms
Diagnosing ADHD in seniors can be complicated due to coexisting health conditions and normal aging. For example, a senior who zones out during a conversation may actually be experiencing hearing loss or medication side effects. Hormonal changes and brain injuries can also cause forgetfulness. For this reason, the doctor will ask a lot of questions regarding when specific symptoms started, and he or she may request further testing to rule out other causes before settling on an ADHD diagnosis.
ADHD can have a huge impact on the ability to live independently. If you have a senior loved one who needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of Home Care Portland families can rely on. All of our caregivers are bonded, licensed, and insured, there are no hidden fees, and we never ask our clients to sign long-term contracts.
Benefits of a Late-in-Life Diagnosis
After years of experiencing ADHD symptoms such as chronic lateness and procrastination, it can be a relief to finally have an explanation for these behaviors. Seniors who seek treatment for ADHD may also find addressing their symptoms enhances their wellbeing. For example, a senior with ADHD might experience increased physical health when he or she can remember to go to scheduled appointments and take medication on time.
If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a trusted provider of Portland elder care. Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping.
Available Treatments
Treatment for senior ADHD may involve medications prescribed to people of all ages. However, these medications can sometimes raise blood pressure, and they may not be suitable for all seniors. Psychotherapy can also be used to help seniors learn how to change their ADHD-related behaviors. Learning how to eliminate distractions and organize one’s life using technology, calendars, and other devices can also help seniors minimize the effects of ADHD on their lives.
Every senior has different needs when aging in place. Some simply need occasional assistance with household chores, while others may be managing serious illnesses and require more extensive at-home care. Portland seniors can count on Assisting Hands Home Care to provide the in-home care they need and deserve. Call Assisting Hands Home Care today at (503) 664-7934 to learn about our high-quality in-home care services.
