Growing Older With ADHD

Most who are diagnosed with ADHD as a child will lead productive lives as long as they recognize the symptoms and can best manage them. Early detection of ADHD also means early treatment which often leads to better long term outcomes.

Not knowing you have ADHD and going untreated can lead to a greater risk of other issues such as depression, problems in schooling or higher education and maintaining a job or relationship. So, early diagnosis and treatment is critical to keeping ADHD symptoms in check.

ADHD As We Age

According to The National Human Research Institute 20 -30 % of people with ADHD do not grow out of it , yet 50% do show a reduction of symptoms as they age. These facts draw unclear conclusions to the severity and trajectory of the disease as we grow older.

But, what the research does show is that those who get treatment early on will lead to the best outcomes. Data shows that ADHD children who receive treatment are less inclined to be involved in risky behavior, like using drugs and alcohol. ADHD treated children are less likely to make trips to the hospital too.

Problems that occur early in life with ADHD children if left untreated have a tendency to compound as an adult.

Adults with ADHD have problems with impulsivity, prioritizing, organization, planning and time management. They find it difficult to take responsibility for the long term consequences of their actions. The executive functioning deficits prevalent in ADHD can negatively impact a persons ability to achieve their full career potential.

Other typical challenges adults with ADHD have are:

Remaining at the same job

Coming in late to work because of timekeeping issues

Unable to multi-task effectively

Demonstrate difficulty with organization

Being too restless on the job

Management and Treatment of Adult ADHD

Currently there are support groups with counselors and coaches that will provide guidance and tips to help manage their ADHD.

Psychotherapy for couples that will help family members learn more about what the condition is and how to best cope living with someone who has ADHD.

Once a person is officially diagnosed and meets the criteria for ADHD which include:

Symptoms are present in at least two locations; work and home.

Symptoms that hinder their daily life.

Symptoms appear before the age of 12 years.

There are a minimum of five symptoms of inattention, impulsivity - hyperactivity or both.

Once these requirements are met then treatments available include:

Psychotherapy

The most common type of therapy is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It often deals with the low self esteem and confidence that many ADHD adults have. It also tries to address the lack of organizational skills and awareness aspects of the condition.

Medication

Most medication for the treatment of adult ADHD include stimulants, such as amphetamines and methylphenidates. Some doctors will prescribe anti depressants for the treatment of ADHD in rare cases. Even though it isn’t approved by the FDA.

NeuroFeedback

Neurofeedback is quickly becoming the best non drug intervention for the treatment of both childhood and adult ADHD. It shows long term affects that can be a healthy alternative for those who don’t want to be on medication.

Female Adult ADHD

It has been shown that it is not uncommon for medical professionals to misdiagnose ADHD in females early on in life because of the impulsivity - hyperactive neural networks tend to be more subtle in women. Undiagnosed and untreated ADHD in girls often result in struggling in school and forming healthy relationships.

As women get older, their ADHD therapy will need to be altered because of pregnancy or menopause. Hormonal changes will directly affect the levels of medication they will receive. So, in many cases they may find therapy, such as neurofeedback more beneficial.

Older Adults With ADHD

There seems to be some research that shows that 70-80 year old’s are less likely to demonstrate ADHD symptoms than people 50-60 years old. This could be because late life diagnosis is complicated because ADHD share many of the same other age related cognitive decline diagnosis.

Establishing good daily habits will help improve the quality of life. Keeping a journal, staying organized, keeping a routine, doing one task at a time, setting reminders with written notes and alarms. Are all things that anyone with ADHD can do to better manage their situation.

Coping with ADHD as we age doesn’t automatically mean taking medication. Group psychotherapy , CBT, neurofeedback therapy and cleaning up your diet and exercise has shown major positive affects for those who have been dealing with ADHD throughout their lives.

Talk to your health professional to determine what is the best treatment plan for you.

-A Balanced Brain Is a Focused Brain -