Nearly 7 million American adults over the age of 65 experience depression, with a high number of older adults remaining undiagnosed.
The reason is outdated attitudes towards mental illness and a general dismissal of elderly problems as a natural result of aging.
But is depression common in older adults?
The assumption that depression is a normal experience of aging is prevalent in society. Such beliefs may prevent people from getting the treatment they need, which results in the further decline of their condition.
To understand how this happens, let’s learn more about depression in older adults.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a mood disorder that affects the thoughts, feelings, behavior, and physical health of the person affected. Often mistaken for simple sadness, depression lasts for more than two weeks and can even continue for months, years, or decades.
Depression may emerge differently in different individuals. There are also different types of depression people experience depending on the cause and lifestyle factors.
Unfortunately, undiagnosed cases can go on for years. While it may not be easy to diagnose without professional help, depression is more harmful if left untreated. It rarely goes away on its own.
Depression is one of the leading causes of suicide in older adults. This is why it is so important to diagnose the condition and mitigate the emerging symptoms at any age, but especially so in adults aged 80 and older.
Is Depression Normal in Older Adults?
No.
Depression isn’t any more normal in older adults than it is in adults in their 50s, 40s, or 30s.
Depression is not a side effect or a result of aging.
Causes of Depression in Older Adults
Depression does not have one clear-cut cause for everyone. But here are some reasons that may be at the root or increase the risk of someone developing depression:
1. Social Isolation
Aging people often become separated from their families, friends, acquaintances, and society at large. Their social activities and connections gradually dwindle, and they become lonely.
A persistent feeling of loneliness and isolation and little to no socialization for extended periods can lead to depression.
2. Sleeping Trouble
Sleeping too much or not getting enough sleep can both lead to depression in the long run. The lack of proper rest during REM sleep can wreak havoc on the body and mind.
3. Lack of Physical Activity
Not moving around enough during the day can negatively impact sleep and overall health. In the long run, a sedentary lifestyle and lack of enrichment can lead to depression.
4. Genes
Family members with a history of depressive disorders puts some people at a greater risk of developing depression at some point in their lives.
5. Stress
Stressful or traumatic events are often a major trigger for depression. These may include getting divorced, suffering abuse, or the death of a loved one. Persistent sadness or grief over unfortunate events can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and depression.
Like depression, stress cannot be traced back to one definite source. In the geriatric population, stress can be triggered by anxious thoughts about the future, such as worries about retirement, finances, or facing mortality.
6. Brain Chemistry
Low levels of key neurotransmitters in the brain can also increase the risk of depression at any age.
7. Health Problems
Chronic medical conditions or disabilities can lead to stress and anxiety, especially in older adults. If they cannot cope with their illness and symptoms, they struggle to manage their feelings, which can lead to depression.
Symptoms of Depression in Older Adults
Symptoms of depression emerge differently in older adults compared to those in their 30s or 40s. If you find yourself or someone around you struggling with these symptoms throughout the day for more than two weeks, it may be a sign of depression.
- Decreased energy or fatigue
- Irritability
- Feelings of sadness, emptiness, or anxiousness
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism
- Complaints of physical symptoms without a cause
- Restless feeling and trouble sitting still
- Moving and talking slower than normal
- Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
- Loss of interest in day-to-day activities
- Feelings of helplessness, guilt, or worthlessness
- Trouble concentrating and remembering things
- Difficulty falling asleep or oversleeping
- Feeling confused about day-to-day activities
- Lack of emotional expression
- Trouble making decisions
- Difficulty in following through with plans
- Spending more time alone
- Outbursts of crying, agitation, or anger
- Talking or thinking about suicide
- Attempting suicide
If you or anyone you know might be showing one or more of these symptoms, consult with a doctor for a concrete diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Tips to Help Older Adults Manage Symptoms of Depression
Seeking medical attention is undoubtedly the most effective treatment for symptoms of depression. However, their family and friends can also help them cope with their condition by encouraging the following adjustments to their habits:
- Get 7 to 9 hours of restful sleep daily
- Be active and follow a regular exercise schedule to improve mood
- Join a class or group to combat isolation
- Maintain a positive mindset
- Find activities that bring joy and do them regularly
- Eat healthy and fresh food
- Take supplements for nutritional deficiencies
- Seek help to manage physical and mental health issues
- Learn or develop coping mechanisms to deal with encroaching stress and anxiety
- Avoid unhealthy habits
- Avoid alcohol and smoking
- Practice some form of mindfulness or spiritual activity
- Confide in trusted people
In Conclusion
Depression, like any other chronic illness, can be diagnosed and treated. It is nothing to be ashamed of, nor is it something you should feel like you have to hide.
Treating depression begins with identifying it, addressing it, and seeking help.
We hope this guide will help you and your loved ones fight and overcome depression. We wish you the best of luck on your journey to better mental health.
