Depression and Seniors

Symptoms of depression can begin at any age and for no apparent reason. (Read about "Depressive Illnesses") For many seniors, however, the symptoms of depression often go unrecognized. Some may attribute their feelings to "old age." Others may not realize that new medications can cause emotional changes. As a result, it's important for seniors and those who care for them to be aware of the symptoms of depression. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) says these include:

• persistent sadness or emptiness
• feelings of despair or hopelessness
• inability to enjoy everyday activities
• changes in sleep patterns such as chronic insomnia or oversleeping
• thoughts of death or suicide (Read about "Suicide Prevention")

In addition, the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI) says that seniors may experience other symptoms, including memory problems (Read about "Dementia"), confusion, social withdrawal, loss of appetite, and, in some cases, delusions and hallucinations. NAMI says many seniors, thinking that depression is an inevitable sign of aging, ignore or deny their symptoms.

Sometimes depression is triggered by a specific event such as the loss of a loved one. Seniors may find this happening all too often, upon the death of a spouse or close friends. In such circumstances, it's obviously normal to experience grief or depression. (Read about "Helping the Bereaved") However, if the depression persists for an extended period of time or if it seems to worsen as time goes on, professional mental healthcare may be in order. (Read about "Mental Health")

Medical problems

Seniors may also develop depression over their increasing number of health problems. If untreated, such depression can interfere with their ability to cope with the health problems. For example, depression may leave them without the energy or will to follow a necessary course of rehabilitation. (Read about "Rehabilitation")

Depression can also result from certain types of medications used to treat a senior's physical problems. According to NIMH, certain drugs used to treat arthritis and high blood pressure fall into this category. Drug interactions can also lead to emotional problems. (Read about "Drug Interaction Precautions") In addition, depression can be triggered by physical problems such as stroke. (Read about "Stroke") In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, an estimated 10-27 percent of people who suffer a stroke also experience major depression, and an additional 15-40 percent experience depressive symptoms within two months following the stroke.

Because the causes of depression can vary so greatly from person to person, someone who suspects depression in themselves or a loved one should seek medical advice. A doctor who has a thorough understanding of your medical and family history (Read about "Family Health History") may be able to pinpoint potential causes and suggest treatment.

Treatment options can include medication, therapy and support groups. The important thing to remember is that depression is not just a simple problem that people can "snap out of" but a serious disorder that may need - and can successfully respond to - the right treatment.

Related Information:

    Suicide Prevention