Several studies have established the two-way relationship between the sporadic and familial forms of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and epilepsy. However, a more robust connection exists between epilepsy and early onset familial AD (EOFAD). Still, the mechanisms underlying the same are not yet fully understood. Aging is also known to be associated with both AD and seizures. Seizures of any type can occur at any stage of AD and are six to 10 times more likely in patients with AD than in controls of a similar age group. Seizures can quicken cognitive decline and increase mortality, amplifying the medical and economic burden. It is, therefore, clinically essential to recognize and treat seizures early in these patients. However, diagnosis of seizures in AD is complicated by the difficulty in identifying non-motor focal seizures in patients with cognitive decline, problems with obtaining histories, low sensitivity of standard scalp electroencephalogram (EEG) methods, nonspecific cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and radiological findings. This article has reviewed and summarised the existing literature on the association between AD and epilepsy pertaining to epidemiology, pathophysiological links, risk factors, modalities for diagnosis, and treatment strategies.

Purpose This study aims to review the presentation of substance use disorders in older adults, how addiction intertwines with neurocognitive disorders and how to approach this vulnerable population. Design/methodology/approach Electronic data searches of PubMed, Medline and the Cochrane Library (years 2000–2021) were performed using the keywords “neurocognitive,” “dementia,” “substance use,” “addiction,” “older adults” and “elderly.” The authors, in consensus, selected pivotal studies and conducted a narrative synthesis of the findings. Findings Research about substance use disorders in older adults is limited, especially in those with superimposed neurocognitive disorders. Having dual diagnoses can make the identification and treatment of either condition challenging. Management should use a holistic multidisciplinary approach that involves medical professionals and caregivers. Originality/value This review highlights some of the intertwining aspects between substance use disorders and neurocognitive disorders in older adults. It provides a comprehensive summary of the available evidence on treatment in this population.