It has been reported by the researchers that elder people, who are suffering from depression are more prone to dementia.

The researchers who have conducted the study says that it's not clear from their findings whether depression really leads to dementia, but the possibility is there.

And researchers also said that depression could influence the risk of dementia by  a number of ways.

Total 949 people participated in the study. The average age of the seniors was 79 and at the start of the study they were free from dementia.

Researchers from the University of Massachusetts Medical School examined the participants for the symptoms of depression. Initially, they asked simple questions to the participants about general depression, social relationships, sleep complaints and other factors.

At the start of the study, total 125 people were classified as having depression. The study was then followed for up to 17 years.

In the end, it was established that 164 people had developed dementia, with 136 particularly identified with Alzheimer's disease.

Almost 22% of participants who were found to be depressed at the start of the study, gradually developed dementia as compared to 17% of those who were not facing depression and also a 70% increased risk was found in those who used to be depressed.