1. What are depression, anxiety and apathy?

Depression, anxiety and apathy are common among people with dementia.

Dementia may affect a person’s mood and interest in daily activities, people and events. This may be due to changes in the brain, but also to the emotional reaction of what is happening to them.

People with dementia may feel sad, worried, frightened, frustrated or angry, may cry and be unusually emotional, agitated or restless. They may also be withdrawn, unhappy and react slowly. These are all behaviours of depression and apathy.

Anxiety can lead to behaviours similar to depression. People with dementia can be worried about being left alone, who is handling their money, or where lost items have gone to and become anxious.