New study, carried out in the United Kingdom, found a link between depressive symptoms and a faster decline in memory in the elderly. Researchers have also found that poorer memory can lead to an increase in depressive symptoms later in life.
For the investigation, published in JAMA Network Open, scientists analyzed around 16 years of data relating to more than eight thousand adults, with an average age of 64 years.
Thanks to this, they concluded that "depression and memory are closely related, and it appears that they both affect each other", explain the researchers, in a statement.
More specifically, people who started out with more significant depressive symptoms were more likely to experience a more rapid decline in memory later on, and those who had a weaker memory were more at risk of experiencing a later increase in depressive symptoms.
Taking into account the results of the analysis, the team suggests that depression may affect memory due to changes in the brain, such as neurochemical imbalances, structural changes in regions important when processing memories and disturbances in the brain's ability to reorganize itself and form new connections.
They also explain that memory deficiencies can result from psychological factors such as repetitive thinking or reflecting on negative feelings.
On the other hand, individuals with memory problems or difficulties retaining new information may begin to experience frustration, loss of confidence, and feelings of incompetence. These are all factors that trigger depressive episodes.
It is also possible that memory disturbance disrupts daily functioning and social interactions, leading to social isolation and potentially triggering depressive symptoms.
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