About this Research Topic
The coexistence of cognitive impairment and depressive symptoms in older adults is common and creates significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Relationships between cognitive decline and late life depression might be addressed from biological, neuropsychological and social perspectives as well as on molecular or practice oriented levels. The clinical course of cognitive impairment and depression may follow variety of trajectories related to individual, social and cultural factors. Untangling these complex interrelationships may support the diagnostic precision, choice of treatment options and development of a friendly and inclusive community for older adults. Moreover, better understanding of common pathways of cognitive decline and depression may facilitate a multidisciplinary approach to geriatric syndromes.
The aim of the Research Topic is to provide a multidisciplinary view of the interrelationship between neurocognitive impairment and depression. The spectrum of research problems includes the influence of the brain aging process, neurotransmitter imbalance, variety of clinical presentations, challenges in clinical diagnosis, neuropsychological profiles, comorbid diseases and geriatric problems, choice of therapeutic options. Proactive approach to cognitive decline and mood disorders requires better understanding of efficacy of pharmacotherapy, non-pharmacological interventions and the potential of novel technologies in the care for vulnerable older adults. Additionally, increasing awareness of cognitive impairment and depression as interrelated phenomena may lead to a better preparedness of the societies and health care systems to effectively address the issues of care on individual and community levels.
The scope of the Research Topic will include the following themes: neuropsychology of cognitive impairment and depression in the context of aging, molecular mechanisms, cell metabolism and neurotransmitter profile, clinical presentations of cognitive impairment and depression, approach to assessment and differential diagnosis, treatment options, interventions including personalized solutions as well as information and communication technologies (ICTs), therapeutic approach in various settings including long-term care, guidelines for clinical practice.
Types of manuscripts anticipated within the Research Topic include the following:
· Original Research
· Systematic Review, Review or Policy and Practice Review
· Hypothesis and theory
· Perspective
· Clinical Trial
· Case Report and Community Case Study
· Conceptual Analysis
· Curriculum, Instruction and Pedagogy.
Keywords: Older adults, cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, depressive symptoms, dementia, geriatric syndromes, frailty
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
