Question: Hello, can you please give some advice on ADHD in older adults? A relative of mine is in their 70s, but very active physically (very healthy) as well as sharp mentally for their age, except for the ADHD symptoms that have always been present. They were only diagnosed a few years ago with no follow-up, and we are wondering the treatment options and how to go about getting started with it all. A little wary of medication but considering giving it a try and wanting to know more options. Thank you!
Answer: Not much is known about ADHD at this stage of life but what is was summarized in an article in my newsletter by Sandra Kooij, MD who operates an adult ADHD Center in Holland and specializes in older adults with the condition.  So as not to clog up this feed, please write me and ask for her article and i will email you a PDF copy.  As she notes, ADHD medications can be used effectively in this population with some safeguards used beforehand around possible increases in blood pressure and heart rate in that age group.  Such effects are minor but at that age even minor changes can be serious if those problems already exist.  (drbarkley@russellbarkley.org)
content: Q: Hello, can you please give some advice on ADHD in older adults? A relative of mine is in their 70s, but very active physically (very healthy) as well as sharp mentally for their age, except for the ADHD symptoms that have always been present. They were only diagnosed a few years ago with no follow-up, and we are wondering the treatment options and how to go about getting started with it all. A little wary of medication but considering giving it a try and wanting to know more options. Thank you!
   Ans: Not much is known about ADHD at this stage of life but what is was summarized in an article in my newsletter by Sandra Kooij, MD who operates an adult ADHD Center in Holland and specializes in older adults with the condition.  So as not to clog up this feed, please write me and ask for her article and i will email you a PDF copy.  As she notes, ADHD medications can be used effectively in this population with some safeguards used beforehand around possible increases in blood pressure and heart rate in that age group.  Such effects are minor but at that age even minor changes can be serious if those problems already exist.  (drbarkley@russellbarkley.org)