CAPS - Center for Criminological And PsychoSocial research

New research overview shows significant knowledge gap in research on ADHD in older adults

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In a newly published meta-analysis, ie. research overview, from CAPS, the prevalence of ADHD in older adults is studied. The prevalence of ADHD in older adults was found to differ significantly depending on the assessment method used and it is clear that there are a significant number of older adults with ADHD and that the prevalence of treated ADHD is less than half the prevalence of clinically diagnosed ADHD.

There is a significant knowledge gap in research on ADHD (Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder) among older adults. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, the prevalence of ADHD in older adults was compiled, taking into account that different assessment methods of ADHD can be used.

The prevalence of ADHD among elderly was found to differ significantly depending on the assessment method used. It is also clear, through this research overview of international research, that there are a substantial number of older adults with ADHD. It is also clear that the prevalence of treated ADHD is less than half the prevalence of clinically diagnosed ADHD. The latter one highlights the need for increased awareness of potential ADHD diagnosis among older adults and not least the treatment of ADHD in older adults. This research review reveals that much more research on ADHD and its treatment among older adults is needed.

The meta-analysis, written by Maja Dobrosavljevic, Carmen Solares Canal, Henrik Andershed, and others, was recently published in the journal Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews. Read the article in full text via the link below.

Contact: Maja Dobrosavljevic maja.dobrosavljevic@oru.se

Read more: Dobrosavljevic, M., Solares, C., Cortese, S., Andershed, H.  & Larsson, H. (2020). Prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, 118, 282-289.