According to the National Institute on Aging, more than five million Americans, age 65 and older, suffer from major depression or a variety of less severe forms of the disease. Symptoms include sleep problems, changes in eating patterns, irritability, restlessness, chronic pain and feeling that life is not worth living. Depression, left untreated, can lead to suicide. Treatment is available for depression in seniors, along with pre-depression symptoms. It should not be considered a normal part of aging.
Step 1
Prevent depression in seniors through exercise (including resistance training), educational classes and therapy. The Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration tested preventative programs and suggests that they may alleviate, or mitigate, pre-depression and anxiety symptoms. (see Reference 2)
Step 2
Arrange a doctor visit to undertake an evaluation for depression symptoms. Some medical conditions and medications may cause depression-like symptoms. The doctor may treat the patient or refer them to a mental health professional, experienced with depression in seniors. The National Institute on Aging estimates that 80 percent of seniors with depression, or depression-like symptoms, improve with treatment. Interestingly, co-existing medical conditions may also improve.
Step 3
Implement a depression treatment plan that may include psychotherapy, medication, exercise and dietary recommendations. An antidepressant may be prescribed to normalize chemicals in the brain. Depending on the mediation, strict food guidelines may be required. Possible therapy formats include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), both of which have proven to be successful in treating depression. (see Reference 1)
Step 4
Create a system of social and community support. Establish a plan with friends and family to help with transportation and emotional support. Arrange for participation in outings and family activities. Also, find organizations or local groups that assist older adults.
Step 5
Access additional options to reduce depression. A report in "Medical News Today," suggests that those seniors who spend time online reduce depression by 20 percent. Dr. Sherry G. Ford, co-author of the study "Internet Use and Depression Among the Elderly," suggests, "Increased Internet access and use by senior citizens enables them to connect with sources of social support when face-to-face interaction becomes more difficult." As mobility becomes more limiting, internet access allows seniors to maintain relationships with family and friends.
