From the Research
Approximately 20% of individuals with schizophrenia may develop dementia, as suggested by the most recent and highest quality study 1. This rate is higher than in the general population, where the risk is typically around 5-10% for people over 65. The increased risk in schizophrenia patients appears to be related to several factors, including:
- The neurodegenerative processes associated with schizophrenia itself
- Side effects of long-term antipsychotic medication use
- Higher rates of cardiovascular risk factors
- Substance abuse
- Poor overall health care The type of dementia that develops is often similar to vascular dementia or Alzheimer's disease, with symptoms including:
- Progressive memory loss
- Cognitive decline
- Functional impairment beyond what would be expected from schizophrenia alone Early detection is challenging as cognitive symptoms may overlap with negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Regular cognitive assessments for schizophrenia patients, especially those over 40, can help identify cognitive changes early, allowing for better management of both conditions, as supported by recent studies 2, 3. It is essential to consider the potential for accelerated cognitive decline and brain changes in middle-aged and older people with schizophrenia, relative to the general population, as highlighted in a recent review 2. Overall, the available evidence suggests that individuals with schizophrenia are at a higher risk of developing dementia, and regular monitoring and early intervention are crucial to mitigate this risk.