What challenges can ADHD create for older adults?

Common impacts include difficulties with memory and attention (sometimes confused with dementia), higher rates of depression and anxiety, increased loneliness or relationship conflict, and challenges with routines like appointments, bills, and organization.

Why is awareness of ADHD in older adults important?

It helps prevent misdiagnosis (e.g., with dementia), improves access to supports that enhance wellbeing, and validates the experiences of older adults who may have gone unrecognized for decades.

What should someone do if they suspect ADHD in later life?

Seek an ADHD-informed assessment. Appropriate care can improve focus, organization, emotional wellbeing, relationships, and overall quality of life.

ADHD in Older Adults.Your Questions Answered: Symptoms, Challenges & Support

Q: Can ADHD continue into older age?

Yes. ADHD is lifelong. Traits may present differently in later life—for example, hyperactivity as inner restlessness, inattention as forgetfulness or losing track of conversations, and impulsivity as interrupting or hasty decisions.

Q: How common is ADHD in seniors?

Global research suggests around 1–3% of older adults have ADHD, though many remain undiagnosed due to low historical awareness and misattribution of traits.

Q: Is ADHD sometimes mistaken for dementia?

Yes. Overlapping features—such as forgetfulness and trouble concentrating—can complicate diagnosis. A comprehensive, ADHD-informed assessment helps differentiate ADHD from age-related cognitive decline.

Q: Can someone develop ADHD later in life?

No. ADHD begins in childhood. However, traits may become more noticeable in later life—for example, after retirement reduces daily structure or with normal age-related changes in memory and focus.

Q: How is ADHD treated in older adults?

Treatment can include cautious use of medication (start low, go slow, check cardiovascular health, and monitor side effects), therapy for skills and confidence, occupational therapy or coaching, lifestyle supports like exercise and reminders, and strengthening social connection.

Natalia Cajide
Sep 22
3 min read

Elderly friends walking along a sunlit beach. Two women in colorful outfits share a laugh, while two men walk behind with a dog.

When most people hear the term ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), they picture children struggling to sit still in school. But ADHD is not just a childhood condition. It is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, which means that all adults who have ADHD continue to be affected throughout their lives — including into their 60s, 70s, and beyond.

Research shows that ADHD in older adults is often under-recognised, yet it can shape daily life in many ways. Here, we combine common questions with research evidence to provide a clearer picture of ADHD's impact on individuals later in life.

Can ADHD continue into older age?

Yes. ADHD is lifelong. Adults who live with ADHD remain affected throughout their entire lifespan (Fischer & Nilsen, 2024; Torgersen et al., 2016). What changes is how traits show up.

Hyperactivity may shift from constant movement in childhood to an inner restlessness in older age.
Inattention often shows as forgetfulness, difficulty following instructions, or losing track of conversations.
Impulsivity may appear as interrupting others, making hasty decisions, or struggling with patience.

How common is ADHD in seniors?

Global research suggests that between 1–3% of older adults live with ADHD (Fischer & Nilsen, 2024; Torgersen et al., 2016). However, many remain undiagnosed. This is because ADHD was not widely recognised when today’s older adults were younger, and traits were often misunderstood as personality quirks.

What are the main challenges for older adults with ADHD?

Research highlights several areas where ADHD can impact later life:

Memory and focus: difficulties with working memory and attention can be confused with dementia.
Mental health: higher rates of depression and anxiety compared to peers.
Relationships: greater risk of loneliness, social isolation, and conflict.
Daily routines: challenges with managing appointments, paying bills, or staying organised (Fischer & Nilsen, 2024).

Is ADHD sometimes mistaken for dementia?

Yes. ADHD and age-related cognitive decline can share features, like memory loss or trouble concentrating. This overlap makes diagnosis complex. A comprehensive assessment is essential to distinguish between ADHD and other conditions (Torgersen et al., 2016).

Can someone “develop” ADHD later in life?

No. ADHD always begins in childhood. However, for many older adults it went unrecognised when they were young. What can happen is that ADHD traits become more noticeable in later life — for example, when retirement reduces structure, or as natural age-related changes affect memory and focus.

How is ADHD treated in older adults?

Medication

Medication can be effective in reducing ADHD traits, but requires caution. After age 60, side effects such as increased blood pressure or heart issues may be more likely. Doctors generally:

Start with low doses and increase slowly
Complete thorough physical assessments, including heart checks
Monitor side effects carefully (Torgersen et al., 2016)

Therapies and supports

Therapy can provide practical strategies for improving organisation, building routines, and strengthening self-confidence.
Occupational therapy and coaching can provide practical strategies.
Lifestyle supports such as exercise, structure, and reminders (alarms, calendars) are highly valuable.
Social connection is protective against isolation and loneliness.

Why is awareness of ADHD in older adults so important?

To prevent misdiagnosis (e.g., confusing ADHD with dementia).
To improve access to supports that enhance wellbeing.
To validate the experiences of older adults who may have lived for decades without recognition.

ADHD is not a flaw. It is one of many ways brains can function. With understanding and appropriate support, older adults with ADHD can continue to live connected, fulfilling, and meaningful lives.

Final Thoughts

If you or a loved one notices lifelong patterns of inattention, restlessness, or impulsivity that continue into later life, it may be helpful to seek an ADHD-informed assessment. Accessing the right care can improve focus, organisation, emotional wellbeing, and relationships.

References

Fischer, S., & Nilsen, C. (2024). ADHD in older adults – a scoping review. Aging & Mental Health, 28(9), 1189–1196. https://doi.org/10.1080/13607863.2024.2339994
Torgersen, T., Gjervan, B., Lensing, M. B., & Rasmussen, K. (2016). Optimal management of ADHD in older adults. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 12, 79–87. https://doi.org/10.2147/NDT.S59271

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At Equal Psychology, we provide evidence-based assessment and therapy for adults across the lifespan. Our team is committed to offering compassionate, affirming care that recognises both the challenges and strengths of living with ADHD.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional psychological or medical advice. The content is intended to support general wellbeing and personal growth, but it may not address specific individual needs. If you have mental health concerns or require personalised support, please consult a qualified healthcare provider. Equal Psychology, Equal Breathwork, Reflective Pathways and its authors are not liable for any actions taken based on this information.

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