When the elderly feel sad, they most likely blame their sadness on their situation. Feeling lonely, isolated and forgotten is a common scenario for the senior. Factors such as the death of a spouse, friends or family, relocation, disability or dealing with a chronic illness can certainly contribute to depression.
According to the National Institutes Of Health, of the 35,000,000 Americans over the age of 65, approximately 2,000,000 are sufferers of full-scale depression. But, that isn’t bleak enough, another 5,000,000 suffer from less severe depression.
Depression in the elderly is often overlooked, but is a serious potentially fatal illness. Suicide is a grave concern among the elderly and suicide rates are much higher than for the general population.
It is important to realize though, that depression can also stem from actual physiological changes. Studies of the brain such as MRIs have shown that brain circuits which regulate functions such as sleep, appetite, thinking, emotions and behavior are not working properly in the depressive state. Brain chemicals which allow cells to communicate with each other (neurotransmitters) become imbalanced.
Conditions Which Can Trigger Depression
Cardiac issues Low thyroid Vitamin deficiencies, such as B12 or folic acid Other chronic illnesses Medications Loneliness Decreased sense of purpose in life Bereavement
What To Look Out For:
Decrease in personal hygiene Increased fatigue Sleep disturbances Substance abuse Death fixation Social withdrawal Lack of interest in formerly pleasurable activities Notable change an appetite or body weight Decreased mood Increased agitation Increased signs of anxiety
What To Do? First Things First…
Because while senior citizens were raised in a time when mental illness was stigmatized, it can be difficult to get them the help which is sorely needed.
If you recognize that the senior in your life is exhibiting signs of depression, get prompt medical help. A doctor will be able to will assess the situation and prescribe therapy or antidepressants as needed. Antidepressants can help to restore the balance of brain chemicals, allow the mood of depression to lift and allow the person relief from the symptoms. If an antidepressant is prescribed, make sure to monitor your loved one. You could see immediate good results or you could see a definite change for the worse. It may take awhile before your doctor will be able to find the right medication that will work best.
Other Ways To Help
Supporting a depressed senior can be accomplished in many ways:
Schedule social activities regularly. Family visits, outings and connections made with other seniors can help alleviate the loneliness. Ensure your loved one is eating properly. Plan and prepare healthy meals. A program such as Meals On Wheels can make sure the senior has a good hot meal at least once a day. Helping with grocery shopping and checking that the food is being used is also important. Monitor for mood change or suicide signals. If you suspect the person is contemplating suicide, seek immediate professional help. Make sure that all medications are taken regularly as prescribed. Pharmacies will dispense medications in blister packs for easier administration.
Even though the signs of depression may seem mild, never underestimate the effect this condition can have on anyone – and especially in an elderly person. Learning how to battle depression and identifying it early on can make all the difference in the life of the elderly person you love.