Depression in the Elderly

The elderly can be more susceptible to depression for many reasons. Physical changes associated with age, a greater number of diseases - sometimes concurrent - as well as isolation and neglect can trigger depression in this particular group.

Isolation

The loss of friends and family is often devastating and can leave an elderly person with few, if any, links to the outside world. The higher incidence of diseases such as osteoporosis and arthritis can aggressively challenge an elderly person's mobility, which makes it difficult for them to go outside, exercise and socialise with friends or family.

Physical Changes and Illness

Since the elderly tend to have a higher prevalence of health conditions as well as requiring medications - often numerous - to treat illness, they are more susceptible to depression. This depression can occur directly from the drug itself or it may occur from the challenges and anxiety associated with the coping aspect of disease. Some of the conditions that are associated with depression are:

• Hypothyroidism
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Cancer
• Heart disease

Drugs that have been suggested as possible aggravators of depression are:

• Steroids
• Sedatives
• Beta-blockers

Symptoms

The symptoms of depression in the elderly tend to be different from those experienced by younger people. A slowing of cognitive functioning and activity occurs as people age and anxiety is more prevalent. In addition, the physical symptoms of depression are often more pronounced in older people. These include:

• Weakness
• Headaches
• Loss of desire
• Bodily aches and pains
• Gastrointestinal upset

Diagnosing depression in the elderly may also be more challenging because the symptoms of depression can mimic those of other conditions such as Alzheimer's disease.

Treatment

Treatment varies but it may involve antidepressant therapy, which can help to regulate the brain's neurotransmitters. Care must be taken because of drug interactions with other medications that an elderly person may already be taking for a health condition. In addition, counselling and similar forms of therapy may be helpful outlets for a depressed elderly person.

Furthermore, it's important for the elderly to deal with any social isolation. In this sense, the community plays a strong party in identifying those who may be socially isolated as well as encouraging forms of interaction and communication. For some elderly persons, an activity as simple as watching television can be enough to provide stimulation with the outside world. There are also community volunteers who can provide home visits, which allows an elderly person to obtain weekly companionship.

Many elderly will likely find that a combination treatment approach works well, where medication, counselling and social activities improve their mood, physical wellness and outlook on life. The elderly can, however, take more time to respond to treatment but if treatment remains consistent and regular, most will eventually obtain positive and successful results. Treatment may also need to be ongoing even after symptoms abate, because this can prevent the risks of depression recurring.

Depression is painful and difficult for a person of any age, but the unique challenges, circumstances and symptoms shown by the elderly mean that special care must be taken to diagnose and treat the disorder. If you are concerned that an elderly loved one is depressed, consider helping that person to make an appointment to see a doctor. Your attention and care can be the gentle nudge needed to help them get back to enjoying the rest of their life.