ADHD in Older Adults: From Late Diagnosis to Treatment Strategies with Kathleen Nadeau, Ph.D.

In this hour long webinar from 11/5/20, learn about ADHD diagnosis and treatment in older adults, with Kathleen Nadeau, Ph.D.
Download the slides associated with this webinar here:
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Related Resources
1. Read This: A Critical Need Ignored: Inadequate Diagnosis and Treatment of ADHD After Age 60 www.additudemag.com/adhd-in-s...
2. Download: “Do I Have ADHD?” Your Free Guide
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3. eBook: "Getting Things Done with Adult ADHD"
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[@rubyg8749]

Thank you very much Dr. Nadeau. I am a 53 yr. old women diagnosed with ADHD in 2019. After watching your presentation I'm feeling deeply understood and incredibly validated.

[@marcysikes]

I am so glad that you talked about dementia in older people who have been diagnosed with inattentive ADHD! Certainly one of my fears! As my friends get older I see them begin to forget, lose their train of thought etc. I tell them that now they know what I have been dealing with most of my life 😂.

[@petersimmons3654]

Re asking older people what they were like as a child, that's a broad condemnation to say it's no point, I remember much of childhood [it's short term memory I have always had a problem with] and it was the list of childhood symptoms in Russel Barkley's lecture that literally described my childhood, and convinced me I have ADHD, out of eight in the list five were said to be sufficient; I ticked all eight. I even remember being so talkative that I tired my mother out, and can still hear her tired voice agreeing with my latest onsession, age three, eighty years ago.

[@saratonnan]

At 72, just diagnosed. This webinar was so helpful and informative. Thank you.

[@SusanWebb-bl6gf]

One area that I feel that is over looked is women undergoing breast cancer treatment and how the various treatments, menopause and cancer itself affect ADHD symptoms (effects of estrogen reduction/blocking on dopamine)...

[@michaelplumley8820]

Thank you for this informative program, Dr. Nadeau. I am a 73-year-old retired librarian who was diagnosed with ADHD in 2009 at age 59. Prior to my diagnosis, I experienced a lot of the problems you outlined in your presentation. After the diagnosis, I worked part-time as a reference librarian into my early seventies, was in a relationship and later married my wife Judy, and at least had an explanation for some of my previous problems. Sorry I didn't get to see this program sooner. Unfortunately, my high blood pressure caused my doctor at the time to recommend that I not take stimulants. Right now I'm in rehab due to a medical condition. I may inquire of my present doctor whether I can consider stimulants once my BP stabilizes. I'll look up your book for sure. Thanks again.

[@ronmorey3475]

You may want to ask your doctor about a non-stimulant medication like Straterra. Sometimes modafinil can be used off-label for ADHD. It is usually used for narcolepsy. My dad had cancer and was very tired all the time so his doctor put him on that when he was 85 years old. He had no ill side effects from it, so ask your doctor about that as well. Hope you're doing better! Cheers

[@keilana6]

82 undiagnosed ADHD. Now that I have plenty of time I accomplish nothing, cannot make a plan & follow through. Increased social anxiety & avoidance at times. And on & on & on.

[@petersimmons3654]

Why do you need to accomplish anything? I'm 83 and undiagnosed, and I'm content with my own and my dogs; company, walk many miles daily, and cope with feeding myself etc. I'm not lonely, and enjoy all the time I have free from the pressures of running a business. I found coping with social anxiety just merans pretending to be confident! I;m convinced everyone has social anxiety, and are all pretending to be confident, like me.

[@keilana6]

Just scared me - 8 years reduction in life span. May this inspire me to get some help.

[@alexandrasampaio6255]

Thank you, Dr. Kathleen for sharing your expertise. So so much. I needed this. In my country ADHD is not acknowledged and ignored in relation to ADHD in adults. Thank you 🙏❤️

[@Denise11Schultz]

ADHD is medically proven on QEEG (quantitative EEG, much more detailed than EEG) and SPECT scans, in case that will help you get proof. Prefrontal cortex of the neurotypical brain is fast brainwaves, adequate voltage, and enough sugar molecules (brain fuel). •Prefrontal cortex of the ADHD brain is quiet, slow, and dark on these two scans. • In the neurotypical brain, with effort, the prefrontal cortex becomes more active. •In the ADHD brain, with effort, the brainwaves get slower and the activity moves away from the prefrontal cortex. •This means trying harder makes ADHD worse. •These are objective, provable features of ADHD. I hope this information will be a beginning for you to get the help you need. I’m sorry, it is hard not to be believed. I was in my late 50s when I was first diagnosed. •There are many other good presentations on this KZbin channel. I hope they will help you.

[@staciamj1]

It matters. I'm in my 50s, went to see a neuropsychologist and she said to me "You're older and think you have ADHD"? It really turned me off, as I would have thought she has dealt with older people. Anyway, I am not stopping, I have to have testing done in a few mths. I need help with meds, I know I do. I have dealt with issues since I was a young person (teens and early twenties) but never knew what was going on. Also, I did well in many ways but definitely had issues with procrastination, task avoidance, initiation, et.

[@kiekie84]

I wanna watch this so bad but it's so long and my ADHD won't let me if we could just say this in a podcast that was very light-hearted and maybe even funny I'd be all on bord and fully tuned in lol but I'm saving this anyway just incase I have the emotional space later on to watch it

[@angelikalaser7778]

I hear you. I went from watching everything on double speed to triple speed, because my mind wanders off after couple minutes with little information. But you have to get used to it. But once you do, you want be able to watch Videos with normal speed.

[@fairislecat6413]

Watch it in stages, that's the beauty of the internet, you can watch this as many times as you like, for me it takes the stress off knowing I'm going to zone out a few times in, but I can simply rewind or take a break.

[@Cole_Cross]

1.5x speed yo!!

[@maryr7593]

I have to listen while doing something else with my brain and eyes....so wash dishes sort papers, fold clothes, sorting stuff. Some folks get on the exercise bike. Just because it's 1.x hours long, you can stop it. Unfortunately my youtube doesnt save my place but you can save the video, re-find your place. You can read the transcript. The transcript is NOT completely accurate because AI computer generated but at least it ives you the idea. In the transcript, you could see what part you might be interested in...and just listen to it. Do what someone else said...take it in 10 min chunks. You can have a podcast that is over an hour too. If the product isnt in the way that you need it, you need to alter your use of the product that make it work for you....breaking it up by time, take notes if you need to keep yourself occupied. Some ppl take their knitting or crafts to meetings, trainings, etc to keep their mind focused on the verbal while keeping your hands busy. If I dont, i fall asleep...the slides arent enough for me. I usually have to forego the slides as it is too distracting from the other plates I'm tossing in the air. I can read the slides later...also some folks cant read and listen at the same time.

[@Uncanny_Mountain]

Listen while doing other things

[@fascistscansuckit]

How to "reduce social isolation, increase support and inclusion"???? I wish there was an entire webinar on THIS subject. You can't just tell someone who is isolated and can't figure out social clues well to "just do it" which is what this lecture actually just did. I am sick of being sad and lonely and not knowing HOW to make friends in my mid 50's. Always hear find a church=big fat nope, cuz I'm not religious. Meetups? The ones I've been to, more like doing things alongside others, people talking to those they already know. Men? They only seem interested if they think they can get somewhere with me. Volunteering? Same as meetups, you need to hang out consistently in order to get to know people and for them to get to know you. Don't have much family, and what I do have don't care

[@fascistscansuckit]

Yeah the panel at 36:45 pretty much describes me. Only difference is since getting diagnosed last year and medicated I am now better able to process emotions so pretty much actually feeling pretty sad about all of it. Yay!

[@johndeal4381]

Can relate well.

[@gweno9901]

Something I've found helpful is doing classes. For 3 years running I did practical horticulture courses (half a day a week). Each course ran from September to July (one academic year) so we got to know each other pretty well. We had Whatsapp groups too. There was the opportunity to meet up socially and keep in touch after the courses finished, but I had family stuff going on so haven't done that. Now I'm doing writing courses. These have been online with Zoom meetings but connections are being made. Hope this helps. Also you're right about having to persevere and get to know people. Its worth it!

[@AntyTiff]

What!? 😱I have been looking forward to retirement because I thought that that’s when I’ll finally be able to get everything done! 😩

[@alexandrasampaio6255]

You are amazing ❤️ Excellent experts, excellent subjects. Thank you for sharing your work. Namaste ❤️🙏

[@jhmstagg9104]

I'm 72 and screened for AD HD . I do not want my family to be interviewed on my past life. I can talk for myself. But at 72. I dont need my family telling my doctor all the crazy things I've done. Otherwise 😊thank you for this forum.

[@AffirmativeArtsOnTheRoad]

So true, , like most of us, probably, feel the same way you do about this. However, I'd like to point out to you that the Dr herself, did explicitly state that interviewing family members as part of an older adult ADHD evaluation was utterly ridiculous and not any part of her own evaluation methods, and further, something she does not condone or recommend. From your comment, I got the impression that you didn't quite recognize this. I may have misunderstood you, but it seems important.

[@whitway]

MS DX at 40. NVLD suspected at 44. ADHD DX at 53 just 5 Days ago. Appreciate this overview.

[@petersimmons3654]

Tip: For difficulty planning and organising exercise such as walking, all that's needed is a dog, aka personal trainer. They will let you know on the minute when you should be taking them out, and won't forget if you don't get your ewalking boots out! They also provide non judgemental company, someone who cares about you.

[@pamelasheahan6149]

Thank you! Just diagnosed at 60!

[@TheMKoussa]

Thank you so much!!!

[@richardmarshall159]

Thank you Dr. Nadeau👍

[@donnaallgaier-lamberti3933]

My 78-year-old husband has had some form of ADHD for our entire marriage. The past few years it has worsened significantly. Now with ADHD and dementia he is almost impossible to live with. He refuses to take any medication. There seems to be no other option for him, and he continues to get worse and worse. He has two adult children from his first marriage and his entire situation falls on my shoulders now. Our marriage is crumbling and my life is horrid. There seesm to be no resources for me either. We have Medicare and good insurance but this does not seems to be helpful at all.

[@jonathanberry9502]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 🎙️ *Introduction and Importance of the Topic* - Introduction to the topic of ADHD in older adults. - Recognition of the limited training among professionals in diagnosing and treating midlife or late-life ADHD. - The significance of Dr. Kathleen Nadeau's work in the area and her focus on raising awareness. 02:43 📚 *Research and Book Focus* - Dr. Nadeau's extensive research over several years, including interviews with adults aged 60 and over diagnosed with ADHD. - The importance of understanding the experiences and challenges faced by older adults with ADHD. - The motivation behind Dr. Nadeau's upcoming book titled "Still Distracted After All These Years." 06:09 🧠 *Personal Experiences and Insights* - In-depth individual interviews conducted by Dr. Nadeau to gather personal stories and experiences. - The diversity and range of experiences shared by older adults diagnosed with ADHD. - Addressing controversies around late onset or adult onset ADHD and emphasizing delayed diagnosis. 08:02 🕰️ *Historical Perspective and Diagnosis Challenges* - The historical context of ADHD, especially its understanding and diagnosis during the early years of those who are now older adults. - The challenges and reasons behind delayed diagnosis, including misconceptions, lack of awareness, and societal views. - The role of gender, IQ, and other factors in overlooking ADHD diagnoses in older adults. 12:54 🎓 *Training and Awareness Among Professionals* - The concerning lack of training among mental health professionals and neurologists regarding ADHD in middle-aged or older adults. - Dr. David Goodman's insights on the limited training in adult ADHD for psychiatrists. - The implications of this training gap on the accurate diagnosis and treatment of older adults with ADHD. 14:09 🧠 *ADHD, Dementia, and Cognitive Concerns* - Addressing concerns about the relationship between ADHD and the risk of dementia in older adults. - Clarifying misconceptions and highlighting research findings that suggest ADHD doesn't necessarily increase the risk of Alzheimer's. - The importance of accurate screenings and distinguishing between ADHD symptoms and signs of mild cognitive impairment or dementia. 19:26 📋 *Challenges Faced by Older Adults with ADHD* - Detailed exploration of the top challenges reported by older adults with ADHD, such as time management, emotional control, and interpersonal relationships. - Differences in challenges experienced by men and women with ADHD as they age. - Insights from ongoing research to develop tailored screening questionnaires for older adults with ADHD. 29:13 🧠 *Treatment strategies for older adults with ADHD* - Strategies to optimize brain function at any age. - Brain-friendly daily habits such as sleep, nutrition, stress management, and exercise. - Importance of executive function coaching for tasks like time management, habit development, and problem-solving. 32:00 📋 *Importance of structure and social interaction* - The significance of structured environments for older adults with ADHD. - The positive impact of reducing social isolation on mood and focus. - Exploration of potential higher incidence of ADHD in older adult communities. 33:48 💡 *Addressing concerns about psychostimulant medication* - The reluctance of many psychiatrists to prescribe stimulants to healthy older adults. - The potential benefits and drawbacks of stimulant medication for older adults with ADHD. - The need for increased training and awareness among healthcare providers regarding ADHD medication for older adults. 35:59 💑 *Relationship dynamics and ADHD in older adults* - Insights into the diverse relationship experiences of older adults with ADHD. - The surprising findings regarding long-term supportive relationships in the ADHD community. - The impact of ADHD on family connections and the emotional well-being of older adults. 38:33 🏥 *Advice for clinicians on diagnosing and treating ADHD in older adults* - Emphasis on considering the extended family history and lifespan factors for accurate diagnosis. - Recommendations on treatment strategies including psychostimulants and coaching. - The importance of recognizing and addressing ageism in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD. 56:22 💊 *Medication and ADHD in Older Adults* - Discussion on the use of stimulant medications in older adults with ADHD. - Emphasis on the importance of monitoring pulse rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs. - Mention that while stimulant medications can be beneficial for many, alternatives and considerations exist. - Monitoring vital signs when using stimulant medication, - Stimulant medication benefits for many older adults with ADHD, - Emphasis on professional consultation for medication-related questions. 57:20 🍎 *Non-medical Interventions for Cognitive Decline* - Exploration of non-medical interventions that can potentially reverse cognitive decline in older adults. - Reference to research by Dale Bredesen on the reversal of cognitive decline. - The discussion of various brain-healthy daily habits such as sleep regulation, diet, exercise, and social stimulation. - Dale Bredesen's research on cognitive decline reversal, - Brain-healthy daily habits for improving cognition, - The integration of various lifestyle factors for cognitive enhancement. 01:00:44 📚 *Dr. Nadeau's Book and Audience Questions* - Discussion about Dr. Nadeau's upcoming book on ADHD in older adults and the research process. - Addressing the abundance of questions from the audience, indicating significant interest in the topic. - Plans to share the questions with Dr. Nadeau for potential insights into public concerns about ADHD in older adults. - Dr. Nadeau's upcoming book and its relevance to the audience, - Recognizing audience interest through numerous questions, - Sharing audience questions with experts for further insights. Made with HARPA AI

[@janmorgan7435]

I’m in my mid 60s and looking to be diagnosed. It was when my daughter was diagnosed l realised that there maybe help for myself. My Dr said what’s the point of being diagnosed at my age. She prescribed 3 different types of antidepressants and that was it. I’m now looking for my own diagnosis, as antidepressants didn’t help. I need find the right diagnosis as Dr wouldn’t refer me and l definitely want to try treatment.

[@suew000]

I was told I could not have ADHD even though I was asked no questions!! I’m in the UK.

[@wendypulaski5000]

I am curious, I am 60 and recently dx I have suspected that I have had it, my kids etc have it, but I was tested as a child it then Gazzel Institute in New Haven for children, i wasn't like other children, I was hit by a car at 8 and they theorized that my both sides of my brain weren't working together that instead of stepping back I literally walked into the vehicle. I had so many red flags that its ironic that i was dx later and being tx for anxiety didn't work with meds...🤔 cbt and learning aka hyperfocusing on new skills

[@kihntagious]

im diagnosed but with all the emotional dysregulation making most days extremely painful. Im becoming very tired of life.

[@AffirmativeArtsOnTheRoad]

I can relate to what you've shared in this comment...I want to acknowledge what you shared here with us, and thank and honor you for your courageous honesty. I feel moved to send you love and care. I too often feel this "tired of life" feeling you describe, I can feel how painful this is for you right through my computer screen, it's very powerful. I just wish I could give you a little relief from this awful feeling by letting you know that you've been heard and cared about...you matter, you really do matter. I hope you can hang in there, and be present for the healing and beauty and love that really is possible; I wish all that and more for you...and me, and all of us here too.

[@petersimmons3654]

I'm 83 and undiagnosed. Hearing all the signs of ADHD was eye opening, it described my childhood prcisely and my life has been difficult in some res[pects, but I have managed, albeit with some upsets along the way. I'm unsure about the labelling as a disorder and treating with drugs. Perhaps ADHD is a perfectly natural variation, perhaps ADHD people have proved useful over the millenia our species has evolved and neuro-typical people are the lesser talented who rely on neuro-divergents for essential things like inventions and general creativity. I suspect the attitude that wants to chemically manipulate children, rather than adapting education to cater for them. Is evidence still being sought from older undiagnosed adults?

[@parisbreakfast]

I ordered, STILL DISTRACTED AFTER ALL THESE YEARS (kindle) then noticed delivery date Jan 11, 2024 😢 in France

[@staciamj1]

Awww. did you get it correcte?

[@sueacres8784]

Same U.K.😢

[@parisbreakfast]

I ordered it from the US & got it quickly. Now to read it 😮

[@cajun5454]

I am a really older guy who feels strongly that ADHD explains a lot of my troubles in life. Do you do ADHD assessments at your clinic? I live in Baton Rouge but would be able to travel. And who would I contact to discuss this? Thank you for the video it was most informative.

[@heathersbling]

I'M ALL OF THE ABOVE AND MORE IN #'s 1, 2, 4 & 5 CHALLENGES! I'M LITEREALLY CRYING WHEN LISTENING TO THIS PORTION. I DOING HYPNOSIS, AND THERAPY. I TRIED TMS THERAPY--DIDN'T HELP. I'M 59 AND GOING THROUGH A HORMONAL MESS WHICH JUST EXACERBATES THIS WHOLE MESS (DR SAID TIME FOR HYSTERECTOMY--SHOULD HAVE HAPPENED 10 YRS AGO), THYROID ISSUES SINCE 15. VERY DYSFUNCTIONAL CHILDHOOD. I'VE HAD ADHD SINCE CHILD HOOD AND DIDN'T START LOOKING INTO IT UNTIL LATE 30'S. MAKES THIS SO DAMN HARD AND I CAN'T FIND THE PROPER HELP. I THOUGHT ABOUT DR. AMEN. DR. NADEAU YOUR THOUGHTS? I FEEL LIKE @KIHNTAGIOUS...TIRED, TIRED AND TIRED!! I ALSO NOTICED THAT THERE IS NO REPLY BACK TO ANY QUESTIONS ASKED BELOW BY THE DR!

[@darrellleeper7534]

06/15 23 I get to see my dr.My family dr gave me some anger tendencies 😅

[@teresahopemiller1008]

cAN BEING BORN WITH rETINOPATHY OF PREMATURITY BE A CONNECTING VARIABLE IN SOME CASES?

[@sirisaksirisak6981]

Age 's just a number. New year but old person.