Depression, according to research, can affect anywhere from 30%-32% of the elderly population. This is often called geriatric depression. It can affect elders and yet remain undetected. How do we recognize it and maybe prevent it? Keep reading to explore:
- Depression in Older Adults.
- 5 Frequently Asked Questions About Geriatric Depression.
Depression in Older Adults (Geriatric Depression).
1. Symptoms of Geriatric Depression
The symptoms of geriatric and older adult depression are very similar, (if not the same), as the symptoms of depression occurring in younger adults.
Difficulty Diagnosing Geriatric Depression
If the symptoms are similar, then why is depression often undiagnosed/misdiagnosed in older adults? The problem is that a lot of older adults and geriatric physicians might not notice the symptoms and signs of depression.
If they do, they might assume that their symptoms are:
- A part of growing old
- As a result of the medicines or existing medical conditions they have
- Not related to depression at all – they may not be aware of how depression can affect the mind and body
- Not that important to report or trouble anyone
2. Risk Factors of Geriatric Depression
The following include some of the risk factors that can increase the likelihood of depression in older adults:
- Increasing age
- Living alone
- Separation/divorce
- Low education level
- Unemployment / unable to work
- Loss of loved ones
- Existing health problems
- Cognitive impairment
- Cigarette and alcohol use
3. Treatment of Geriatric Depression
Just like depression in younger adults, there are multiple treatment options for older individuals as well. You can visit this page for more details on the treatment options.
| Self Help | Connect with your loved ones – Social connectedness reminds you that you are a part of society that is valued and loved. Exercise / Being Active – Benefits the body physically and helps with the release of feel-good hormones. Practice Mindfulness – Being present in the moment and dealing with your thoughts in a non-judgemental manner reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. Volunteer – A lot of individuals find a life purpose and feel better about themselves when they volunteer and give back to the community. Try Something New – Learning something new presents a fun challenge and a way to socialize! |
| Psychological Therapies | Psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy and group therapy can be provided to help understand your thoughts, feelings and behaviors (or a lack thereof). You can reach out to a professional for a session. |
| Medications | Various medications such as antidepressants can also be prescribed to help alleviate the symptoms of depression. It is important to talk to your doctor to find out which medicine is right for you and your circumstances. |
4. Can Geriatric Depression be Prevented?
While geriatric depression can not be completely prevented, making certain changes in your lifestyle can help strengthen mental health:
- Exercise and remain physically active
- Eat well-balanced meals
- Get at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night
- Engage in your favorite hobbies and try new ones
- Stay in touch with friends, family, and loved ones
Conclusion
Geriatric depression can affect a significant portion of the elderly population. Many people mistake it for other conditions or normal aspects of aging. Risk factors include living alone, existing health problems, and much more, However, treatments such as self-help, therapies, and medications are available.
You can work on staying healthy through exercise, proper sleep and diet, and staying connected with others to help yourself through depression.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Geriatric Depression.
1. Are Older Adults More Depressed? If so, why?
Many different research papers quote different prevalence rates of depression in adults aged 55 and over. We can estimate that it affects about 20% – 30% of the elderly population. This rate is even higher in developing countries.
Older adults experience significant changes (major transitions) in this age range; they grow old and witness their physical health declining, get diagnosed with other medical conditions, loved ones slowly passing away, they may live alone or in an old age facility away from their loved ones.
Or, they might be unable to work and have to adjust to retirement. All of these are only some of the reasons that can explain why depression is so prevalent in the elderly.
2. Is Depression Common at Age 40?
The most recent statistics tell us that depression is the most common in young adults from ages 18-29, affecting 21% of the population. In the United States, depression can affect around 17% of the population aged 30-44.
While it might not be the most common, it still affects a large part of the population and should be treated as soon as possible.
3. Is Depression a Normal Part of Aging?
Simple answer, no. Depression is not a part of normal aging, despite what a lot of people might believe.
People might often consider its symptoms to be associated with other medical issues or declining physical health.
Some might even consider the symptoms to be sadness.
So what’s the difference? Sadness is a normal emotional reaction to something that has happened. It is a feeling that usually goes away in a couple of hours while depression does not. It lingers and might not be caused by anything obvious.
4. Can Geriatric Depression be Caused by Medicines or Medical Conditions?
Yes! Certain medicines or combinations of medicines could have depression listed as a side effect.
A lot of medical conditions can cause significant lifestyle changes which could lead to the development of depression as well. Therefore, it is important to get medically checked whenever you experience these symptoms.
5. How Can I Tell the Difference Between Dementia and Depression?
Symptoms of depression can often be mistaken for dementia because of forgetfulness and low energy, but you need to look at the bigger picture to see that they are not the same:
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