Does Depression Affect Seniors?

Elder Care Skokie IL - Does Depression Affect Seniors?

Often, regular sadness is misunderstood as depression. But the fact is, sadness caused by the loss of a loved one, financial crisis, emotional fragility, major negative life change, chronic disease is common. Using alcohol excessively, drugs and certain medications can cause depression. There are certain examples, however, without any known reason, where depression develops as well. In the case of clinical depression, people can not normally just “get over” it. Biologically, clinical depression is an illness of the brain where a chemical imbalance occurs that affects thought processes, emotions, and behavior.  Elder care providers can step in to watch over your loved one and take note of their behavior.

Although depression can affect anyone of any age, seniors are often not correctly diagnosed or recognized as clinically depressed, because most of the time, depression in elderly people gets mistaken as a sign of aging. It is also common for seniors to not report what they are feeling, even or especially if they are depressed. Depression, if not treated, can continue for weeks, months or even years. Untreated depression is the major cause of suicide in seniors. Elder care at home for seniors may be a relief for a senior suffering from depression.   

Signs of Depression 

There are many signs which can identify depression in your loved ones. However, there are some grey areas that also exist where sadness and other factors are involved. Some examples of depression indicators include: 

• Not getting dressed properly 
• Not answering the phone or a knock on the door 
• Expressing feelings of sadness or worthlessness 
• Low self-esteem 
• Sleeping too little or too much 
• Difficulty concentrating  
• Seeming confused all the time 
• Lack of energy for any work 
• Eating too much or too little or even refusing food 
• Heavy mood swings and being grumpy  
• Wanting to be alone 
• Having suicidal thoughts 

Why Depression is Often Overlooked In Seniors 

Unfortunately, most depressed older patients fail to identify the symptoms of their depression and do not want to seek medical help. Some of these reasons may include: 

• Thinking that depression is a part of aging or that there is another reason for feeling down for an extended period. 
• Believing that their weak physical states are the root cause of sadness and not realizing the mental causes of clinical depression. 
• In old age, it is very common for people to hesitate to ask for help or even talk and discuss their problems. This also may lead to missing the signs of clinical depression. 

Conclusion: Does Depression Affect Seniors? 

As with any other medical condition, depression also needs the same care and attention. There are several treatment options available for depression, such as medication and counseling. It is a very treatable disorder.  

One of the most effective ways to fight depression in seniors is to have a companion that can help your senior with their everyday tasks. Elder care at home will ensure the safety and everyday convenience for your loved one. Call us today and see if elder care at home is a good fit for you and your family! 

Sources: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/depression-and-older-adults 
https://www.camh.ca/en/health-info/guides-and-publications/depression-in-older-adults 
https://www.cdc.gov/aging/depression/index.html 

If you or an aging loved one are considering Elder Care Services in Skokie IL, contact the caring staff at Gentle Home Services. Call today (800) 860-9823.

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