Depression can be hard to spot in older adults because of their different symptoms.Depression is not a normal part of aging.Triggers are those related to physical health and medical problems.Depression can be caused by changes to functioning and loss.It is important to communicate with medical and mental health professionals when dealing with symptoms of depression.
Step 1: There are complaints about physical problems.
Many older people do not feel depressed because they don't feel sad.They may experience more complaints about their health.Older adults with physical complaints such as arthritis or headaches are more likely to be depressed.Increased bodily aches and pains can be a symptom of depression.If you or someone you love experiences physical symptoms that make you uncomfortable, this may be a sign of depression.Check in with a doctor to find out how to treat pain.Some less obvious signs of depression include losing interest in activities they used to enjoy, not wanting to leave the house, having trouble focusing and completing tasks, and experiencing extreme fatigue.
Step 2: Determine if chronic conditions play a role.
Chronic conditions can affect older adults' day-to-day functioning and abilities.Depression can be made worse by chronic conditions.Parkinson's disease is one of the chronic conditions that can interact with depression.Symptoms of depression can be triggered by a chronic condition, which can lead to increased feelings of sadness or loss.Take treatment if you have a chronic condition.Follow through on any recommended lifestyle changes given to you or your loved one by taking any necessary medications.Depression can be caused by things like a reaction to the anesthesia, hormonal or chemical changes triggered by the surgery, or surgical traumatic stress syndrome.
Step 3: There are changes in sleep.
Older people may have trouble sleeping or falling asleep.Older adults may wake up more often during the night.Depression can be caused by problems getting sleep.If a lot of nights are restless, this can be a sign of depression.daytime naps can be used if nights are hard to sleep through.
Step 4: There are changes to the diet.
Depression can be affected by nutrition.Depression can be linked to Skipping meals, having a minimal appetite, or craving sweets.Changes in food habits can be a sign of depression.If you suspect an onset of depression due to changes in appetite or eating, make nutrition a priority.
Step 5: Don't avoid isolation.
If family is far away or cannot visit frequently, older adults may feel lonely.Symptoms of depression can be worsened by isolation.If older people outlive their friends and families, they may experience depression.If you notice that a loved one is isolating from others, this may be related to depression.Even if you use email, phone calls, or video chats, keep in touch with your family and friends.There are ways to stay socially connected.Attend game nights with other older adults, arrange weekly meetings with family members, and attend spiritual gatherings.
Step 6: You have to adjust to living changes.
Older adults can move to assisted care facilities or family members can take care of them.These changes can be difficult for a once-independent adult.The older adult may feel like a burden to their family if living arrangements change.Feelings of depression can be a result of struggling with these changes.There are people who are struggling with changes to living space and lifestyle.It's a good idea to talk to your family about independence needs.You might be able to find counseling services for your loved one.They may be able to see a counselor on site if they have insurance.
Step 7: Accept physical losses.
Loss of independence can affect how a person feels and what they do.An elderly adult may feel sad or helpless if they need to depend on others to fulfill their needs.Changes in work, income, mobility and flexibility can alter their sense of who they are and leave them feeling sad or worthless.Losses and the toll they take on you or a loved one should be acknowledged.Don't be afraid to ask for help from family, friends, medical providers, and therapists.When struggling with the emotional side of these changes, it's okay to ask for help.If they can no longer drive or attend events at a local senior center, you may want to look for ways to keep them active, such as a senior shuttle to take them shopping.
Step 8: There is loss in relationships.
Older adults may experience more loss in this time of life.Older adults outlive their families and friends, which can make them feel isolated.It can be difficult to keep up with friends and family if you can't travel.Watching loved ones pass can make you feel sad or powerless.Depression can be triggered if you or a loved one is having a tough time dealing with loss.It is okay to talk about feelings related to loss.If you or a loved one are not comfortable talking to friends or family, see a therapist.
Step 9: Problems in personal care can be addressed.
An older adult may start to take less care of themselves due to depression.They may forget to take their medication, shower less frequently, or skip meals.Even if it affects health and well-being, taking care of yourself may feel less important.Changes in personal care can be a symptom of depression.If you or a loved one is having trouble remembering to do certain things, you can either set an alarm or engage in a daily routine.It's important for your loved one to remember to take their medication, so you can arrange for someone to visit and help them.It is possible to have someone come and help your loved one with their laundry and other household chores.
Step 10: Symptoms of depression can be identified.
If you think you might be depressed, there are some things to look out for.It's possible that you or a loved one can feel sad or depressed, cry more easily, or experience less enjoyment in activities.There are some physical indications that include moving or speaking more slowly, changes in appetite or sleep, lack of energy, and unexplained aches or pains.You should see a psychologist or therapist for a proper diagnosis.Obtaining treatment begins with a diagnosis.If you or a loved one is suicidal, immediately seek help.You can reach out to a friend or family member, contact your provider, call a helpline or go to the emergency department.
Step 11: Depression can be caused by medications.
When taking several medications, the risk of developing depression increases.Elderly people are more sensitive to side effects of drugs due to less efficient metabolizing.Blood pressure medication, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, ulcer medication and steroids are some of the medications that can cause depression.Discuss the symptoms of depression with a physician if you think it's a side effect of medication.Think back to when the symptoms began and what has changed.Make a list of symptoms that show when each medication started and when they started having specific symptoms.
Step 12: Seek treatment.
Depression can be treated.Taking medication, seeing a therapist, making lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches can be part of treatment.What is best for you or your loved one can be decided by talking to a mental health professional.A therapist can help build skills.Side-effects of medication can be unpleasant.Changing one's lifestyle can help with physical, mental, and emotional well-being.Long-term treatment of depression can be aided by lifestyle changes.