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Many people often assume that as one ages the onset of depression is part of the psychological and physiological changes that one undergoes. Depression, however, is a treatable medical condition, not a normal part of aging.
The increased risk of depression among the elderly is a function of the likelihood of chronic health problems with 80% of the elderly having more than one chronic illness and 50% having at least one.
Distinguishing depression from “the blues”
Healthcare professionals may diagnose symptoms of depression of an elderly adult as just a natural reaction to illness or the life changes that may occur with aging. As a result, many physicians do not treat depression as a medical condition and the elderly themselves don’t understand that they could feel better with appropriate treatment. Remember, depression is a medical condition that is treatable..
How does one know the distinction between feeling “the blues” or having depression? One symptom is the duration of the symtoms. Feeling blue is relatively short lived while depression lasts for weeks or longer. Other symptoms include the following:
• Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
• Irritability, restlessness
• Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable
• Fatigue and decreased energy
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
• Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
Depression has serious ramifications
Depression among the elderly is a serious medical condition. Studies have shown that elderly adults with depression and who live in a nursing home with at least one chronic medical condition increase their risk of death. Depression also increases the risk of suicide, particularly white men. Suicide rates in people ages 80 to 84 more than twice that of the general population. Consequently, the National Institute of Mental Health considers depression in people age 65 and older to be a major public health problem.
If you want to know more about depression and the elderly, MedlinePlus is an excellent source.
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Randy Ryder is a Professor Emeritus at The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and is a publisher of Elder Parent Help.