Date of Award

2020

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Robin Wellington

Second Advisor

Wilson McDermut

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between Alzheimer’s Disease and depression to determine whether a correlation existed and whether depression led to greater outcomes of Alzheimer’s Disease. Depression-Alzheimer’s relations have been mixed in previous research. Data from an existing data set of visitors to the Alzheimer’s Disease Centers with three or more visits (N= 19, 652) was used to test correlations between depression and Alzheimer’s, later odds of developing Alzheimer’s, and possible moderating effects of social support. A positive correlation was found between depression and Alzheimer’s Disease. Patients with depression were found to be more likely to have Alzheimer’s. There was also greater chance of Alzheimer’s in those living with others (the indicator of social support). An interaction between depression and living situation also found increased odds but not as great as both items on their own. Results were consistent with hypothesis that a relationship between depression and Alzheimer’s existed and that depressed individuals had greater odds of having Alzheimer’s

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