The surprising link between depression and heart disease and their effect on the brain

A new 14-year study reveals a complex connection between depression, heart disease, and cognitive decline. It found that persistent depressive symptoms alter how heart disease affects the brain. Researchers emphasize the importance of combined treatment for both conditions.

A new 14-year study reveals a complex connection between depression, heart disease, and cognitive decline in older age. Researchers analyzed data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) and followed 5,423 adults over age 50 between 2004 and 2019. Participants reported diagnoses of heart disease and underwent repeated assessments of depressive symptoms and cognitive functions. It was found that both heart disease and persistent depressive symptoms were associated with faster cognitive decline. A surprising finding: the harmful effect of heart disease on brain function was most pronounced among people with low levels of depressive symptoms. The researchers emphasize the importance of combined treatment for mental and physical health.