According to the National Institutes of Health, 2 million elderly Americans suffer from full-blown depression, and another 5 million suffer from less-severe forms of depression. Elderly depression has several causes, from isolation to medical illness. Although occasional depressed feelings are normal, constant feelings of hopelessness and loss of joy are not. Elderly depression often goes undiagnosed because many elderly people will not admit to feeling depression. Some elderly people may not even be aware of their depression, or they are aware and feel that nothing can be done about it. Depression is not a normal function of aging, and there are several treatment options to relieve the symptoms.
Social Contact
As people get older, friends and family members pass away, leaving elderly people feeling isolated. Regular social contact, such as group outings and family visits, can help with depression caused by loneliness. Group-based physical activities, such as walking, can also reduce depression in elderly people.
Medical Treatment
Illnesses such as chronic pain conditions can cause depression. Some medications may also cause depression as a side effect. Treating the underlying medical conditions or changing medications can help relieve the symptoms of depression. If you suspect that illness or medications are the source of depression, don't attempt self-treatment. Consult a physician to come up with a safe and effective treatment plan.
Talk Therapy
For many, just being able to talk about their depression is an effective way to reduce symptoms. Although it may be easier and cheaper to talk to friends and family members, it's actually better to seek help from a professional psychologist, psychiatrist or other therapist. A professional therapist is trained to deal with the issues surrounding depression; generally, friends and family members are not. Professional therapists also have the ability to remain neutral and impartial in a way that friends and family members can't.
Drug Therapy
Antidepressant drugs can relieve many of the symptoms of depression and pave the way for other therapies. However, there are concerns as to whether or not these drugs interact with other drugs prescribed to the patient. Also, many elderly people take several prescriptions already, and may balk at taking yet another pill. Still, according to the National Institutes of Mental Health, antidepressants can be effective for elderly depression. Doctors usually prescribe these medications in smaller doses than for younger patients, and should carefully monitor the patient for side effects.
