Depression affects everyone, regardless of age. It might be difficult to spot the symptoms of sadness in your elderly family members, and they may have a hard time recognizing them in themselves. Depression in the elderly can be caused by many different things, such as chronic pain, the loss of a spouse or close friend, retirement, or feelings of isolation. It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of depression so you can get your loved ones the help they need.
Recognizing some of these indicators of depression and symptoms can assist you to identify depressive behavior among the elderly:
SIGNS/SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION
• Lack of Energy
• Feelings of Despair
• Sadness
• Memory Problems
• Loss of Interest
• Thoughts of Suicide
• Weight/Appetite Loss
• Sleep Disturbances
• Drug/alcohol use
• Ignoring Personal Hygiene
• Lack of Motivation
• Self Loathing
Although drugs are very helpful for some people, they might also produce undesirable side effects, such as depression. The harmful consequences of medicines, in particular if you take many of them at once, can give rise to these symptoms and signals of sadness. Because we are less efficient with medications as we get older, the elderly are more susceptible to their adverse side effects.
Certain diseases, as well as certain medical problems, can produce cognitive and attention deficits that mimic symptoms of depression.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS THAT CAN CAUSE SYMPTOMS
• Dementia/Alzheimer’s Disease
• Diabetes
• Stroke
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Heart Disease
• Cancer
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Lupus
It’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of depression so you can get your loved ones the help they need.
WHAT TO DO?
Stay healthy – A holistic approach to overall mental, physical, and spiritual well-being can significantly lower depressive symptoms. Getting enough sleep and good sleep are two simple methods to improve poor sleep. Exercising also raises your spirits by producing endorphins and adrenaline. You don’t have to join a gym to be healthy. Cleaning your house, playing with your grandchildren, or even taking a walk in the park can help. What you put into your body on the outside is just as essential as what you put into it on the inside. Eating too few calories or eating foods that do not contain enough vitamins and minerals might result in feelings of sadness and lethargy.
Stay engaged – When you’re sad, it’s all too easy to just sit and watch television. When you engage in activities with others, on the other hand, you can combat depression symptoms by doing so. The more socializing you do, the better you’ll feel. You may also improve your social circle by attending events such as book readings, and painting sessions. Take a walk, shop for something nice, or see a friend if you have the time. Keep in mind, though, that socializing does not always need to be in person. Even spoken words or electronic communication may serve as a therapeutic tool.
Seek help – Feelings of sadness are quite frequent, therefore you should never be ashamed to get professional assistance. Because the elderly are more susceptible to medication side effects, antidepressants should be used cautiously. Depression can be alleviated with a combination of behavioral and pharmaceutical therapies. Therapy and lifestyle modifications can help to cure depression effectively. If you or a loved one are experiencing depression, please consult with a mental health professional who can help you get on the path to recovery.
Many seniors may be sad but do not recognize the symptoms and signs of depression, so they have no idea what to do to assist themselves. Just keep in mind that you have the power to influence your emotions.
Avanti Senior Living at Peoria
Avanti Senior Living at Peoria, Arizona, offers a pleasant, therapeutic atmosphere with a variety of on-site services and activities to enjoy. Our residents have access to a fitness center, beauty salon, library, and more. In addition to assisting with medical appointments, we also help with medical visits, transportation, and errands.
Avanti Senior Living at Peoria’s goal is to provide a comprehensive method for improving the quality of life for our residents. We aim to promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being through a variety of activities and give people freedom of choice in a flourishing environment.
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of depression, contact us today to learn more about how we can help.
