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Abstract

Cognitive deterioration or “terminal drop” has been associated with impending death in elderly individuals. The neuropsychological test pattern of this cognitive disturbance is similar to that noted in patients with major depressive disorder. This similarity has led to the hypothesis that “terminal drop” may be a sign of masked depression in the elderly. Anti-depressant therapy (pharmacotherapy or electroconvulsive therapy) has been shown to improve neuropsychological function in depressed individuals. According to this hypothesis, antidepressant therapy of elderly individuals having neuropsychological profiles consistent with the terminal drop pattern should ameliorate the (masked) depression, improve neuropsychological performance, and prolong survival.

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“Terminal Drop” as a Sign of Depression in Elderly Individuals: An Hypothesis

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