Photo ©iStock/kieferpix(06/10/2026) VA San Diego and Greater Los Angeles researchers learned Veterans with mid- and late-life depression have an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). The study included 20 years of electronic health records data from more than 700,000 Veterans. Those with a depression diagnosis before age 60 had more than 250% greater risk of developing ADRD than those without, while those diagnosed after age 60 had a 70% higher risk of ADRD. The link between depression and ADRD was independent of traumatic brain injury or PTSD status. The findings emphasize the need to screen Veterans with depression for cognitive changes, especially those diagnosed in mid-life. (Alzheimer’s & Dementia, May 21, 2026)
