ADDitude Magazine online invited me to present a free webinar on ADHD in Older Adults Tuesday, February 1pm EST. Because I co-authored the first literature review of world-wide scientific research on ADHD in older adults, ADDitude Magazine believes it is an important issue for its millions of readers. Register for the webinar and if you can’t make the time, it will be available for replay and podcast download from iTunes.

While it is well established that ADHD persists into adulthood in 60% of children with ADHD, there is almost no recognition of ADHD in people over age 50. However, there is enough international research to alert people and clinicians that ADHD should be considered and part of the evaluation for cognitive complaints in aging patients.  This is especially true when ADHD has been diagnosed in a first degree relative (mother, father, son, daughter).

So, if an older family member has a history of life-long inattention, poor memory, forgetful, misplacing things, taking too long to complete tasks, shows up late, doesn’t listen in conversations, easily eruptive and impatient, …well, you get the picture, then join me for the webinar where I’ll cover some the scientific research along with insights for diagnosis and treatment. Perhaps more importantly, how to approach an older family member with your observations and concerns.

For my older patients diagnosed and effectively treated, they are grateful to function at a higher level, relieved of the fear of dementia, and now realise “That (ADHD) wasn’t me as a person.” At any age, that insight is liberating.

In this webinar, you will learn:

1. how to identify and understand ADHD symptoms in adults over age 50
2. the importance of an accurate diagnosis in older adults who are experiencing mental changes
3. why clinicians don’t consider that ADHD might be the reason for “thinking problems” in older adults
4. signs that clinicians and older adults should be aware of in the diagnosis process
5. how stimulants might fit into a treatment regimen for adults who are taking multiple medications
6. how medication and organizational skills can improve daily functioning and quality of life
7. how to approach a parent who you suspect has had lifelong inattention and disorganization