As caregivers, it’s common to notice changes in your loved one’s memory, mood, or behaviour. However, dementia, depression, and anxiety can share many overlapping symptoms, which can make interpretation confusing.
For example, people with dementia often experience changes in their motivation, mood, or social engagement. Up to 40–50% of individuals with dementia may also experience depression at some point, and this can worsen memory and thinking problems. Depression and anxiety can appear as low interest in activities, social withdrawal, irritability, or disrupted sleep, which are symptoms that can also be seen in dementia itself. 
A common misunderstanding
Families sometimes assume that all changes in mood or behaviour are part of dementia. Moreover, depression is a treatable condition that may require its own interventions, such as counselling, medication, or structured activities, which can improve quality of life even when dementia is present through meaningful activities.
What you can do
- Observe and document changes you see, such as when they happen, and how they differ from “typical” dementia patterns.
- Speak with your loved one’s doctor or health care professional about screening for depression and anxiety as part of their regular care.
- Ask about support groups, counselling services, or psychiatric consultation, especially if symptoms seem sudden, worsen quickly, or become unmanageable.
Caregiving is as much about emotional support as it is about day-to-day care. Understanding the overlap helps you respond with clarity and confidence.
Our Adult Day Program provides support to older adults and seniors who have a cognitive impairment, such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, and are physically frail. This program provides caregivers with daytime respite to rest, recharge, and complete everyday tasks.
References:
Alzheimer’s Association. (2025). Depression and Alzheimer’s disease. https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors/depression
Alzheimer Society of Canada. (2025). Changes in mood and personality in dementia. https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-caring-person-living-dementia/understanding-symptoms/changes-mood-personality
Author:
Christine is a compassionate Registered Social Worker (RSW) and MSW student with over twelve years of frontline experience in hospital, correctional, residential, and community settings. Specializing in trauma-informed care, mental health, addictions, and therapeutic recreation, she uses a holistic approach that integrates diverse social work modalities, Indigenous healing perspectives, and client-centered practices.
With credentials in Indigenous Social Work, Addictions, and Therapeutic Recreation, Christine is committed to culturally safe, decolonized, and strengths-based care. Through her writing, she shares evidence-informed insights to support healing and wellbeing. Outside work, she volunteers with animal rescue organizations and enjoys DIY projects, arts and crafts, and travel.