basic geriatric nursing test bank Related

Review basic geriatric nursing test bank related questions and content

Which condition is often misdiagnosed as depression in older adults?

  • A. Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • B. Dementia
  • C. Anemia
  • D. Sleep apnea
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Dementia. Older adults often experience cognitive decline, memory loss, and behavioral changes that can be mistaken for symptoms of depression. Dementia is a common condition in the elderly that can be misdiagnosed due to overlapping symptoms such as apathy, social withdrawal, and changes in sleep patterns. Chronic fatigue syndrome (A), anemia (C), and sleep apnea (D) may also present with symptoms of fatigue and sleep disturbances, but they are less likely to be confused with depression in older adults compared to dementia.