The Podcast

We don’t outgrow ADHD, we simply change with it. Join hosts Jami and Justin as we explore the intersection of ADHD and seniors.

Episode 53 – ADHD or Alzheimer’s? Why The Symptoms Can Look So Alike

What if the memory lapses you thought were early-onset Alzheimer’s were actually ADHD hiding in plain sight? In this eye-opening episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro talks with Dan Sweiger—a healthcare industry leader and co-owner of BrightStar Care of Carlsbad, California’s top-rated home care agency.

Dan shares his powerful journey of being convinced he had dementia, only to discover in his mid-40s that ADHD was the real explanation. His story highlights the fear, relief, and surprising freedom that comes with a late-life diagnosis—and why so many older adults mistake ADHD symptoms for normal aging or memory loss.

Beyond his personal experience, Dan also talks about ADHD in families, the stigma of masking, and how embracing his diagnosis has reshaped his relationships, career, and outlook on life. Together, Jami and Dan explore what ADHD looks like after 50, why awareness matters, and how acceptance can lift the weight of shame and self-doubt.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your “senior moments” could be something more—or you want to support a loved one navigating ADHD later in life—this episode is a must-listen.

ADHD or Alzheimer’s? When Memory Loss Is Really ADHD

What if the forgetfulness you thought was dementia was actually ADHD? For many adults over 50, a late ADHD discovery explains decades of memory lapses, overwhelm, and “senior moments” that never made sense.

In this episode of Grandma Has ADHD, host Jami Shapiro sits down with Dan Sweiger, co-owner of BrightStar Care of Carlsbad—California’s top-rated home care agency. Dan shares his story of being convinced he had early-onset Alzheimer’s, only to discover ADHD was the real explanation.

His journey sheds light on why ADHD often gets overlooked in older adults. It also reveals how stigma and masking make symptoms harder to spot, and why embracing a diagnosis can feel like lifting a lifelong weight.

When ADHD Looks Like Dementia

Dan describes the fear of forgetting names, repeating questions, and struggling with word recall. These symptoms led him to believe he had Alzheimer’s. A full neuropsych evaluation, however, revealed ADHD. That diagnosis didn’t just bring relief—it also brought clarity.

Key takeaways include:

  • Why ADHD and dementia symptoms overlap in older adults
  • How ADHD changes as we age, from multitasking to memory challenges
  • Why awareness in memory care clinics is urgently needed

ADHD in Families and Everyday Life

For Dan, ADHD isn’t just personal—it runs in his family. His daughter was diagnosed in high school, and he recognized patterns in his extended family too.

He also shares how ADHD impacts daily living, from managing bills to staying on top of medications. Support systems like home care or body doubling can make a huge difference.

What you’ll learn:

  • How ADHD traits pass through generations
  • The hidden role of ADHD in managing daily life and routines
  • Practical tools like reminders, calendars, and accountability partners

Embracing ADHD Instead of Masking It

One of Dan’s most powerful insights is how freeing it felt to stop hiding his struggles. Instead of masking memory lapses or word recall issues, he learned to be open, ask for reminders, and give himself grace.

Insights include:

  • Why masking creates stress and stigma for adults with ADHD
  • How openness reduces embarrassment and strengthens relationships
  • Why acceptance can transform your quality of life

Why This Episode Matters

If you or a loved one have worried that memory loss could mean dementia, this episode offers hope and clarity. ADHD doesn’t disappear with age—it’s often misunderstood.

Dan’s story proves that naming it, embracing it, and finding support can open the door to living fully—at any age.

Whether you’re over 50 and newly diagnosed, supporting an aging parent, or simply curious, this episode will remind you: memory loss isn’t always what it seems. Sometimes, it’s ADHD.

Resources & Key Terms Mentioned:

Dan Sweiger, a healthcare industry leader and co-owner of BrightStar Care of Carlsbad, California’s top-rated home care agency

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