Major changes and events in life with no motivation or less happy events to look forward to are contributing to the growing concerns of depression in aged people. Not only does the condition affect daily life, but it also contributes to declining physical and mental health. Understanding depression in senior citizens is crucial for their overall well-being, including as basic as sleep and eating and effective response to treatment. In the blog below, we discuss everything we need to know about depression in elderly people and when and where to seek help.
Old Age And Depression: What is Depression in Older People?
Older adults, after retirement or due to ageing, leave work and start sitting idle. The initial rest soon starts to develop into feelings of no value, no purpose, sitting idle, and loneliness. The persistent feelings become a mental condition that then makes the person lose interest in everything. The slow development of the condition often makes it go undiagnosed and misunderstood as the effect of old age. Learning the symptoms of depression in the elderly is important to seek help early to stop further complications.
Old People And Depression – How Common is Depression in Older People?
Even though unrecognised depression is becoming a growing prevalence among older adults, it is a growing concern globally. Studies have shown that 35% of senior citizens suffer from depression. With many causes influencing the condition and lack of diagnosis, it has also led to an increase in the number of suicides among the same age group.
What Causes Depression in Older People?
An important thing to understand is the causes of depression in old age. Not only does it help people with ageing family members, but it is also useful for them as we are not getting any younger. Awareness makes way for prevention and should be taken seriously.
- Health Issues – With age, elderly people start developing a lot of health issues which restrict them in several ways. The limitations can be demotivating to them and cause depression.
- Loss of Loved Ones – It is also the time when they start losing a lot of people to death. Losing a spouse, close-aged family members or friends can cause grief and leave a mark on their mind, causing a fear of death or acceptance that their death is near.
- Loneliness and Social Isolation – With age, people start getting isolated in their homes due to lack of work or health issues and declining social circle. It can significantly impact their mental well-being.
- Cognitive Decline – The onset of mental conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s may also trigger depression in older adults.
- Medication Side Effects – Certain prescription drugs may also contribute to declining mental health.
What are the Signs of Depression in Older People?
Awareness helps recognise the signs of depression in seniors. It paves the way for early intervention and diagnosis and thereby needed help. Here are the signs of depression in older adults that you or family members should pay attention to and notice if they are persisting for weeks to understand that it is time to get help:
- Continued sadness for weeks
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Not interested in anything
- Favourite activities or things not giving happiness
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Loss of appetite and weight
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Trouble with focus or concentration
- Constant negativity in words and beliefs
- Physical pains with no real cause
- Social withdrawal
- Neglecting or uninterested in hygiene
- Frequently talking or thinking about death or suicide
How is Depression in Older People Treated?
The treatment of depression, irrespective of age, needs expert guidance and assistance. Since depression in older people concerns age and several factors associated with age, the treatment is often combined with geriatric care. The most effective and used treatment methods used by mental health professionals for older adults and depression include:
1. Therapy and Counseling
CBT, the acronym for Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, which is a form of psychotherapy, is often used to address the root causes of depression and help patients manage their emotions well.
2. Medication
Depending on the elderly and depression stage, doctors may choose to prescribe antidepressants under supervision to bring the symptoms under control. However, antidepressants are used carefully as they may react with other medications and have side effects.
3. Lifestyle Changes
Most people with depression are suggested lifestyle changes like regular moderate physical activity, social engagement like joining clubs or groups and encouraging healthy eating habits.
4. Social Support
In some cases, family counselling may be recommended to train and educate the family about geriatric care. Depending on the needs, therapy to improve family dynamics may also be recommended.
Aging and Depression: How to Prevent It
Depression in seniors can be prevented if people are aware and careful. Here are some steps that can help to prevent depression-
- Active social connections
- Regular exercise, which is considered safe for the elderly by a doctor, can help elevate mood and reduce stress.
- Engagement with something after retirement, be it hobbies, clubs, or social work, helps to stay motivated and live with a purpose.
- It is also important to seek professional help if sadness or negative feelings persist for more than two weeks at a stretch.
Symptoms Of Depression In the Elderly? Seek Geriatric Counseling at Olive Elder Care
At Olive Elder Care, we combine mental health care with geriatric care. The combined approach with a priority for holistic practices allows us to help the elderly recover and find happiness. Our expertise in eldercare allows us to understand senior citizens and their problems well. We know how to help them in ways that make them comfortable and feel heard and important. Olive Eldercare team provide tailored professional guidance for geriatric depression in an environment that is securely made for senior citizens only. Get in touch with us today, and let us help the aged members of your family take a few steps toward good health, happiness, and overall well-being.
FAQs
- Can depression in elderly be mistaken for dementia?
Yes, several symptoms of both conditions are similar, and hence, getting professional guidance is important.
- What is the best treatment for elderly depression?
The best treatment depends on various factors such as the stage of depression, medical conditions, physical condition, etc. Therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes are the most common treatments used.
- Is depression a normal part of ageing?
No, depression is not normal, but it is a growing concern among senior citizens that needs attention.
- How can family members help an elderly loved one with depression?
Isolation is a major cause of depression in the elderly. Family members with company, engagement, encouraged physical activities, and regular health checkups can help their loved ones.
