Key facts. Depression is a mental health condition that can affect people of any age. More than 1 in 10 older people experience depression. The 3 main causes of depression in older people are poor physical health, social isolation and loss.
To help us tease out whether an older adult has depression, geriatricians often use screening tools developed for older adults, such as the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) or the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia. These are easy-to-use questionnaires that help determine if an older person is depressed or not.
Depression is a true and treatable medical condition, not a normal part of aging. However older adults are at an increased risk for experiencing depression. If you are concerned about a loved one, offer to go with him or her to see a health care provider to be diagnosed and treated.
Depression is the most common mental health problem in older people. People aged 85 and older have the highest suicide rate of any age group. Two-thirds of seniors with mental health problems do not get the treatment they need (the "treatment gap").
To keep loneliness and brooding at bay, encourage the senior to take up a hobby such as knitting or gardening. You can also talk them into trying social pastime activities such as card playing, yoga, or volunteer work for a local charity.
TREATMENT FOR MAJOR DEPRESSION For the initial treatment of major depression, we suggest a combination of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. Well-designed studies have shown that combination treatment is more effective than either treatment on its own.
Bright Light Therapy has been found to relieve symptoms of depression and improve mood and sleep. The best length of time to receive bright light therapy is not fully known, but it should be used for at least one week. Please talk with your family doctor when considering Bright Light Therapy for depression.
It's possible that multiple situational and environmental triggers are at play. Some common risk factors for anxiety disorders in seniors include: Stressful life events (e.g., death of a loved one) Limited physical mobility.
They'll ask about whether you've had thoughts of suicide or self-harm. A GP may use a questionnaire to assess your symptoms. Try to be as open and honest as you can be with your answers. Describing your symptoms and how they're affecting you will help the GP determine whether you have depression and how severe it is.
Three of the more common methods used in depression treatment include cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Often, a blended approach is used.
TREATMENT FOR MAJOR DEPRESSION — For the initial treatment of major depression, we suggest a combination of antidepressant medication and psychotherapy.
Reassure them that they are not alone: Mental health stigma tends to be strongest among older adults, who often fear that their symptoms will lead to hospitalization or rehoming. Reassure them that while depression is not a sign of good health, it is not uncommon and is very treatable.
Stay Active. Not only is exercising good for the body, but it's also an effective way to combat depression, anxiety, and stress. Exercising promotes all kinds of changes in the brain, including neural growth, reduced inflammation, and new activity patterns that promote feelings of calm and well-being.
Learn more about getting help and finding a health care provider. Other risk factors for depression include: Personal or family history of depression. Major negative life changes, trauma, or stress.
There is no cure for depression, but many different treatments are available to manage the symptoms. The symptoms of depression vary among individuals. A treatment plan that includes medical interventions, support, and lifestyle changes can enable a person to live a normal and full life with the condition.
New research shows that blood tests may also help diagnose depression, in addition to physical and mental health exams. From examining your symptoms, discussing your medical history, and going through a series of physical and mental health tests, diagnosing depression can often be a lengthy process.