Dealing with Depression in Senior Citizens

Depression is a serious condition that affects a large portion of senior citizens in the United States. Unfortunately, many seniors don't have a good social support system to provide for their emotional needs. Many of them live alone and are more or less cut off from any social network.

Many seniors are widowed and still grieving the loss of a spouse. Siblings and close friends may have passed on as well. Grown children and grandchildren may live in other parts of the country making close contact difficult and infrequent.

In the United States many elderly people become lonely and depressed. They lack the emotional support that is needed to nurture their well-being. In some other countries, the elderly are respected for their wisdom and remain an important part of their families and communities throughout their lives. Sadly, that type of reverence is lacking in our country.

Depression in the elderly can be brought on by many factors including illness, disability and medication. Depression tends to linger longer in seniors than people of other ages despite treatment but this is understandable since it is most likely compounded by other factors such as medical health conditions. Long-term illness and chronic pain can make the battle with depression even more difficult.

People often suffer from depression after being disabled through injury or illness. Loss of mobility can be devastating to someone who previously was very active and self-reliant. It is very depressing and hard to accept for a person who can no longer care for him/herself and must depend on someone else for assistance.

Depression can have an adverse effect on physical health also. People who are depressed may not take care of themselves properly even though they are still physically able. They may not eat well or get the proper amount of sleep. They can withdraw and become socially isolated. Seniors that are suffering from depression may not take their medication for other health conditions as prescribed.

Those who suffer from chronic pain or are grieving the loss of a loved one may give up hope and lose the will to live. The same is true of some senior citizens following retirement. They may feel as though they have outlived their usefulness. They feel as if they have lost their purpose and direction.

Some medications can also cause depression. Many senior citizens take several medications for conditions such as heart disease and high blood pressure. Some of the medications prescribed for these conditions are known to cause depression.

Depression is more than just feeling down. It is not to be taken lightly. There is also the risk of suicide in those who are severely depressed.

How do you know if an elderly friend or relative is suffering from depression?

There are several signs that may indicate depression. These include:

Anxiety
Withdrawal
Decrease in appetite
Weight loss
Insomnia or excessive sleeping
Irritability
Sadness
Fatigue

How is depression diagnosed?

A physical exam will be performed to rule out any physical illness as the cause. Blood tests, urinalysis and other tests may be done as well as a psychological evaluation.

How is depression treated?

Depression is treated with drug therapy and counseling.

If you or someone you know may be suffering from depression, seek help. Depression doesn't just go away. Senior citizens can and should have a happy, fulfilling life. Productivity doesn't have to stop because we age.

If you are a senior:

Seek out other seniors in your community.

Get information on support groups or start one.

Socialize by joining a group or club.

Take up a new hobby.

Get a pet. Animals make great companions and they provide unconditional love.

Get a computer and internet service. If you don't know how to use it, learn. Learning helps to keep the mind young and active. The internet helps you to stay in touch with loved ones and make new friends.

If you are not a senior citizen you can help the elderly in a variety of ways.

Check in often on elderly relatives and friends. Make sure they are eating well and taking their medications. Stay for coffee and conversation.

Provide transportation when needed. Take them on an outing.

Offer to do household chores or cook a meal.

Send cards to let them as you're thinking of them. Pick up the phone, call and chat a bit.

Organize a birthday party. Many elderly people feel down and lonely on birthdays and holidays. A pleasant surprise can lift their spirits immensely.

Volunteer at a nursing home or hospital. Many of these people would be grateful for a smile, some emotional comfort and kind conversation.

Senior depression can be prevented. All it takes is time and compassion. You can't help everyone but if you've helped one person, you've made a difference.