Depression in the Elderly: Not a Normal Part of Aging

Did you know that depression affects more than 6.5 million of the 35 million Americans aged 65 years or older? There is a perception that depression is a normal part of aging, but this is a myth. Unfortunately, this misconception may be what prevents the elderly from seeking the assistance that they need to improve their sense of well-being, depression, or mental health. It is important to note that depression in older people is closely associated with dependency and disability and causes great suffering for the individual and the family according to NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

There are a number of risk factors and causes of depression:

Health problems – Illness and disability; chronic or severe pain; cognitive decline; damage to body image due to surgery or disease

Loneliness and isolation – Living alone; a dwindling social circle due to deaths or relocation; decreased mobility due to illness or loss of driving privileges

Reduced sense of purpose – Feelings of purposelessness or loss of identity due to retirement or physical limitations on activities

Fears – Fear of death or dying; anxiety over financial problems or health issues

Recent bereavement – The death of friends, family members, and pets; the loss of a spouse or partner

There are many signs and symptoms of depression. We recommend visiting the depression health center at WebMD, where there are videos to watch, tips on depression food traps, and where you can learn more about depression so you can talk openly with your doctor.

Treatment for depression is individual but here are a few helpful tips:

Learn as much as you can about your depression
It’s important to determine whether your depression symptoms are due to an underlying medical condition. If so, that condition will need to be treated first. The severity of your depression is also a factor. The more severe the depression, the more intensive the treatment you’re likely to need.

It takes time to find the right treatment
It might take some trial and error to find the treatment and support that works best for you. For example, if you decide to pursue therapy it may take a few attempts to find a therapist that you really click with. Or you may try an antidepressant, only to find that you don’t need it if you take a daily half hour walk. Be open to change and a little experimentation.

Don’t rely on medications alone
Although medication can relieve the symptoms of depression, it is not usually suitable for long-term use. Studies show that other treatments, including exercise and therapy, can be just as effective as medication, often even more so, but don’t come with unwanted side effects. If you do decide to try medication, remember that medication works best when you make healthy lifestyle changes as well.

Get social support
The more you cultivate your social connections, the more protected you are from depression. If you are feeling stuck, don’t hesitate to talk to trusted family members or friends, or seek out new connections at a depression support group, for example. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness.

Treatment takes time and commitment
All of these depression treatments take time, and sometimes it might feel overwhelming or frustratingly slow. Recovery usually has its ups and downs so be kind and patient with yourself.