Depression

Number of people affected:
Two million suffer from depression, and another five million suffer from less severe forms of the illness.

Who gets it:
Any elder can suffer from it, but serious illnesses, loss of a spouse or changes in lifestyle are often contributing factors.

Symptoms:
Sadness, hopelessness, irritability, sleeplessness, weight loss, social withdrawal

Treatments:
Psychiatric counseling, medications and support groups

Doctors to see:
Geriatric Psychiatrist

Depression is not a normal part of aging, yet it is widely under-recognized and undertreated in the elderly. There is no one cause of depression. For some people, a single event can bring on the illness. Depression often strikes people who felt fine but who suddenly find they are dealing with a death in the family or a serious illness. For some people, changes in brain chemistry can affect mood and cause depression. Sometimes those under a lot of stress can feel depressed. Others become depressed for no clear reason.

People with serious illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, or Parkinson's disease sometimes become depressed. They worry about how their illness will change their lives. They might be tired and not able to deal with something that makes them sad. Treatment for depression helps them manage their depressive symptoms and improves their quality of life.

Genetics, too, can play a role. Studies show that depression may run in families.

Look for these signs and symptoms of depression:

• Sadness
• Fatigue
• Losing interest in hobbies or other pleasurable pastimes
• Social withdrawal and isolation
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Hopelessness
• Helplessness
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Irritability
• Lack of interest in personal care and hygiene
• Sleep disturbances (sleeping to much or sleeplessness)
• Feelings of worthlessness, self-loathing
• Crying often
• A hard time focusing, remembering, or making decisions
• Increased use of alcohol or other drugs
• Fixation on death
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts

Medical conditions that often trigger depression include:

• Alzheimer's
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Parkinson's disease
• Cancer
• Diabetes

Before a diagnosis of depression is made, your loved one should be screened for some common health issues that can affect mood, including:

• Thyroid problems
• Hormonal imbalances
• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Electrolyte imbalances or dehydration

If these conditions are ruled out and a diagnosis of depression is made, your loved one will likely be referred to a psychiatrist for counseling and/or medication. Other doctors can also prescribe anti-depressants, but it is recommended that they are used in conjunction with counseling.

Depression in the elderly is treated with psychiatric counseling, medications and support groups – or a combination of the three.

• Loneliness and isolation – Seniors living alone, especially those living alone for the first time; a dwindling social circle due to deaths or relocation; decreased mobility due to illness or loss of driving privileges.
• Reduced sense of purpose - Feelings of worthlessness loss of identity due to retirement or physical limitations on activities.
• Health problems – Illness and disability; chronic or severe pain; cognitive decline; damage to body image due to surgery or disease.
• Medications – Some prescription medications can trigger depression or make it worse.
• Fears – Fear of death or dying; anxiety over financial problems or health issues.
• Death of loved ones. The death of spouse, friends, family members, and pets.

Watch for clues and don't ignore the warning signs. If left untreated, serious depression can lead to suicide. Listen carefully if someone of any age complains about being depressed or says people don't care. That person may really be asking for help. Seek immediate professional help if you suspect that your loved one is thinking about suicide.

Here are some tips for helping your loved one:

• Make appointments for the person or go along to the doctor, mental health expert, or support group.
• Make sure all medications are taken as instructed, and on time. Remind the person to obey doctor's orders about the use of alcohol while on medication.
• Be patient and understanding. Listen to your loved one with patience and compassion. Don’t criticize feelings expressed, but point out realities and offer hope.
• Get your relative to go on outings with you or to go back to an activity that he or she once enjoyed. Encourage the person to be active and busy.
• Plan healthy meals. A poor diet can make depression worse. Make sure your loved one is eating right, with plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, and some protein at every meal.