Apathy
Domain : Symptoms
Category : My daily life
Simplified definition
A condition in which a person loses motivation and interest in social life and daily activities, but which does not necessarily mean being sad or depressed.
Source: Houria Aiouaz, for Alzheimer Foundation
Referenced definition
“Apathy is a common neuropsychiatric symptom (NPS) characterized by a loss of motivation,
emotional reactivity and initiative.”
Source: Mortby ME, Adler L, Agüera-Ortiz L, Bateman DR, Brodaty H, Cantillon M et al. Apathy as a Treatment Target in Alzheimer’s Disease: Implications for Clinical Trials. The American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry. 2022;30:119-147.
Context
“A person with apathy may not be very worried about these symptoms, but that does not [sic] mean they are not [sic] important. Apathy gets in the way of everyday activities.” [UHASD002]
Source: UHN. Apathy – A Symptom of Dementia. [Internet]. 2020 [cited on Sept 7, 2022].
Note
- Apathy and depression are two different conditions.
- Group activities and cognitive stimulation can help people with AD cope with apathy.
GO FURTHER
