Seniors and Signs of Depression

Everyone experiences depression occasionally. Older adults are more likely to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder than any other age group according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Learning to recognize the warning signs of major depressive disorder in the elderly is the first step in treatment and recovery.

Because identifying depression is difficult, many caregivers and family members confuse late life depression for normal signs of ageing. The symptoms of major depressive disorder include loss of interest in daily activities and feelings of sadness for a two-week period or longer. In addition, changes in appetite, lethargy, a change in sleep patterns, irritability, impaired concentration and suicidal thoughts or thoughts of death are other indications of depressive disorder. Seniors with depression may also exhibit additional symptoms including memory loss, confusion, and poor grooming habits, substance abuse, isolation and low appetite.

The causes of major depression are unknown. In elderly adults, major clinical depression may be triggered by loneliness and isolation, the death of a spouse or infrequent contact with family members. Some prescription medications can also cause symptoms of depression in seniors. In addition, medical problems like cancer, thyroid disease, cancer and chronic pain can also trigger depression.

Once a senior is diagnosed with major clinical depression, treatment begins. Depression treatment includes individual and group therapy, antidepressant medications, nutritional and lifestyle counseling. Activities like walking, yoga, gardening and art therapy are useful in reducing depression symptoms. Being surrounded by supportive caring people is crucial in recovery from depression. Elder care facilities offer seniors emotional support, companionship, social and recreational activities necessary to recover from a major depressive episode. Seniors who live alone may need to widen their social circle. Enrolling in a class, joining a book club, gardening or volunteer work are activities that can help elderly adults decrease loneliness. In adults over 65 years old, depression is a common problem. With proper treatment and support, elderly adults can recover from depression and reclaim their lives.