Depression is a serious mental health condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age. However, it’s especially important to be aware of the signs of depression among the elderly, as it can often manifest differently in this population. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of the following signs, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional.
Depression is a serious concern for the elderly, and since it may be difficult to identify symptoms of depression in your aging family members, they might have a hard time recognizing them in themselves. Recognizing some of these indicators of sadness and symptoms can help you recognize depressive behavior among the elderly:
SIGNS/SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION
• Lack of Energy
• Feelings of Despair
• Sadness
• Memory Problems
• Loss of Interest
• Thoughts of Suicide
• Weight/Appetite Loss
• Sleep Disturbances
• Drug/alcohol use
• Ignoring Personal Hygiene
• Lack of Motivation
• Self Loathing
Despite these signs and symptoms of depression, they might be caused by the harmful side effects of medicines, particularly if you’re taking several at once. The elderly are more vulnerable to the side effects of medicines because we metabolize them less efficiently as we get older.
In addition to specific medications, certain medical conditions can cause confusion and attention deficits, which resemble symptoms of depression either directly or indirectly.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS THAT CAN CAUSE SYMPTOMS
• Dementia/Alzheimer’s Disease
• Diabetes
• Stroke
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Heart Disease
• Cancer
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Lupus
It’s especially important to be aware of the signs of depression among the elderly, as it can often manifest differently in this population.
WHAT TO DO?
Stay healthy – A comprehensive approach to overall mental, physical, and spiritual wellness has a significant influence on depressive symptoms. Getting enough sleep and good sleep are two simple things you can do to relieve depression’s sleeplessness. Another helpful method to combat depression is exercise. Exercising increases your mood by producing endorphins and adrenaline. You don’t need to go to the gym to get in shape. You can walk, clean your house, or even garden for the same health benefits. What you put inside of your body is just as vital as what you do on the outside. Eating insufficient calories or eating the wrong nutrients can lead to feelings of sadness and low energy.
Stay engaged – When you’re sad, you may not want to do anything. Engaging with others, on the other hand, is one of the most effective ways to combat depression symptoms. The more socializing you do, the better you’ll feel. You can also increase your social circle by participating in activities like book clubs, art workshops, and fitness classes. Take a stroll, shop, or see a friend if you can. Keep in mind, though, that socializing does not always have to be face-to-face. Even spoken words or email contact may help to lift your spirits. So please try and stay active; it will benefit you! According to legend, laughter is the greatest cure.
Seek help – Feelings of sadness are quite common, so you should never be ashamed to seek professional help. Because elderly people are more susceptible to the negative effects of medicine, antidepressants for them should be taken with great care. Depression can be treated using a variety of behavioral and pharmacological methods. Therapeutic methods, such as counseling and lifestyle modifications, are quite successful. Medication, on the other hand, only targets symptoms of depression rather than its underlying cause. As a result of lifestyle adjustments, every aspect of your life – from career to social to personal – may change.
Many seniors may be sad but do not recognize the symptoms and signs of depression, so they have no idea what to do to assist themselves. Just keep in mind that you have the power to influence your emotions.
Avanti Senior Living at Covington
Avanti Senior Living at Covington provides a comfortable atmosphere with several on-site services and activities to enjoy. Our residents have access to a fitness center, beauty salon, library, and more. In addition, we provide medical appointments, transportation, shopping excursions, and other errands.
Our community-based care at Avanti Senior Living at Covington focuses on a holistic approach to improving the quality of life of our residents. Our helpful living facility provides the ideal setting for individuals suffering from mild to moderate levels of depression, as it empowers residents to participate actively in their own health.
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of depression, contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
