Depression in Older Adults

When someone is over 65, depression is common. It can be harder to spot though. Depression often shows up differently when you are a senior. It may be common, but depression is not a normal part of aging. Symptoms can be controlled with the right treatment so a healthier, fuller life can be lived. Besides age, there are other things that raise a person's chances of depression. Examples are: Had depression before Are female Have a chronic illness, such as diabetes Have a disability Not sleeping well Are by themselves a lot Have a family member who has had depression Take certain medicines Have a brain-affecting disease Alcohol or drug abuse Experiencing a stressful life event If the person needs in-home health care or hospital care, they are far more likely to be depressed than if lives in the community. Depression is common to develop with other health issues that come up after 65. Health issues like: Heart disease Cancer Alzheimer's disease Arthritis Sometimes the blame for depression symptoms is the medicine for these conditions. These health conditions can be made worse by depression, and vice versa. Getting the person's depression under control often improves other medical issues and their overall health. Depression in seniors often gets overlooked. Older people may not have the sad or empty feeling that is common with it. Instead, these are some symptoms: Feeling tired Trouble sleeping Grumpy or irritable Confusion Unable to pay attention Not enjoying activities they once did Moving slower than usual Change in appetite or weight Feeling worthless, hopeless or guilty Have aches and pains Suicidal thoughts Depression can sometimes hit after the death of a spouse. Although it is normal to grieve, one-third of widows and widowers have symptoms of it in the first month after their partner dies. Half of them still struggle with depression a year later. Medication, some sort of therapy, or both is usually recommended by a doctor. A person's mood will be boosted and they can get back to feeling better with the combination of medical treatment and a healthier lifestyle.