Helping Seniors Who Are Dealing With Depression

Studies show that almost 2 out of 10 senior citizens 65 and older have experienced depression and that depression is more common in women than men. They live for about five years longer than men (80.5 years vs 75.1 years). This means that they are more likely to be alone after the death of a spouse.

Although depression is common in older adults, it’s not necessarily a cause of aging. Recent studies have consistently shown that the majority of seniors are satisfied with their lives.

Learn more about depression among seniors, including what to look for, how to treat it, and how to support those who have mental health issues.

What is Depression?

Depression can cause mood disorders that affect your behavior, feelings, and thoughts. The effects of depression can differ between older people and younger people. Depression is more common in older people due to disabilities and medical conditions. It tends to last for longer than it does in younger people. Depression is not an inevitable part of aging.

Many older adults are misdiagnosed, and may not be treated for depression. Sometimes, their symptoms can be misdiagnosed due to medication, illness, or life changes. Seniors may not be aware of their symptoms. Depression can be severe, but it is treatable.

According to the National Institutes of Health, there are many types of depression seniors might experience.

• Depressive disorder – This disorder may be caused by a separate medical condition like multiple sclerosis or heart disease.
• Major depression disorder Symptoms can last up to two weeks and may interfere with daily activities.
• Persistent depression disorder – Although this disorder is also known as dysthymia it can last for more than two years. However, the individual may still be capable of performing daily tasks.
• Seasonal affective disorders – This disorder is also known as SAD. It is characterized by depression in winter when there is less sunlight. This depression usually subsides in the spring and summer.
• Substance/medication-induced depressive disorder – This disorder is related to the use of substances, like alcohol or pain medication.

Signs and symptoms of depression among senior citizens

Depression can affect older adults. They may experience sadness, grief, or other symptoms. Some people report feeling drained and not depressed.

Signs of depressive symptoms may include:

• Anxious, empty, or sad mood
• Energy loss or fatigue
• Difficulty in concentrating, remembering, and making decisions.
• Insomnia, excessive sleep, and early morning wakefulness are all possible
• Eat more or less than you normally do
• Feelings that you are worthless, helpless, hopeless, or guilt
• Trouble sitting still, restlessness, or irritability
• Loss of interest or enthusiasm in hobbies and favorite activities
• Talking or moving slower
• Persistent aches or pains, cramps, digestive problems, or headaches
• Suicide thoughts or attempts, or thoughts of suicide

These symptoms may be caused by chronic diseases common in older adults such as Alzheimer’s, arthritis, cancer, heart disease, Parkinson’s, and heart disease.

How Seniors Treat Depression

Depression can be treated as soon as symptoms appear.

First, doctors will try to determine if there are any medical conditions or medications that could be causing depression. If this is not possible, they will adjust accordingly. A referral to a mental healthcare professional can be made if there is no obvious medical condition.

Common treatments for depression include:

• Counseling or psychotherapy can help you identify and overcome your problems.
• Medications These can balance hormones that influence mood such as serotonin. There are many antidepressant medications.

Although depression is not something that can be avoided in many cases, there are steps you can take for your mental well-being. These are some of them:

• Get active.
• Do not isolate yourself. Let others help.
• A healthy and balanced diet is important.
• Educate yourself about depression.
• Sleep for 7-9 hours each night.
• Take part in the activities that you love.
• Postpone important decisions.
• Set realistic goals.
• Keep in touch with family and friends.
• Be patient and know that your mood will improve over time, not instantly.

Supporting Seniors Who Are Depressed

Support is needed for seniors who are suffering from depression. Encourage them to visit a mental health professional or health care provider.

Seniors with depression can be helped by your emotional support. With patience and compassion, listen. Seniors won’t expect you “fix” their problems, but they want to hear your opinion.

Here are some other ways you can help them during this time:

• Encourage them to stick to their treatment plan. For example, remind them to take prescribed medication.
• Invite them to go on outings, walks, and other activities.
• You should ensure that they have transportation to their therapy appointments.
• Always take note of suicide comments and inform a doctor or therapist.
• Encourage them with support, understanding, patience, and encouragement
• You can remind them that depression can be overcome with treatment and time.

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