Between 15 and 20 percent of the elderly population in the U.S. may suffer from depression, according to the University of Michigan Depression Center. Untreated depression can prevent seniors from enjoying life to the fullest and can take a toll on physical health. Depression is not a necessary part of aging. It can be treated and managed if you recognize the symptoms and get professional help.
Physical Symptoms
Older adults don't always fit the typical picture of depression, according to helpguide.org. Many mistake depressed behaviors for anxiety or irritability and ignore complaints that tend to be more physical in nature. Examples can include constant hand wringing and room pacing as well as chronic complaints about aches and pains. Slow movements are also a sign of depression among the elderly.
Social & Behavioral Changes
Older adults who deny feelings of sadness may be depressed, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH) and National Library of Medicine website MedlinePlus. Rather than saying they feel depressed, they may say they have lost interest in activities, have no motivation or lack energy. They may withdraw from social activities and friends or become reluctant to leave home.
Depressed seniors can become excessively worried about topics that once did not give them pause. While some worry about topics like money, health or world affairs, others may obsess about death, dying or even suicide.
Habit Changes
Traditional symptoms of depression that apply to other age groups can also apply to elderly experiencing depression. These can include a change in appetite or eating habits, although it is most likely that a loss of appetite will occur accompanied by unintentional weight loss versus weight gain. Changes in sleep habits can also occur and can include difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. It is also common for a senior to lose interest in self-care, which can include everything from forgetting medications to failing to bathe and brush teeth. Others can experience difficulty concentrating and have memory problems.
