Depression in Older Adults:
Rediscovering A New Purpose
Rediscovering A New Purpose
It can be natural for people to feel sad or “down” at various points in time. Sadness is a natural response to life’s inevitable adversities, such as failed relationships, deaths, illnesses, layoffs, etc. Feelings of sadness can fade on their own though when they do not, or they intensify, it can lead to depression. Many believe that depression is an unavoidable part of growing old. It seems justifiable to feel empty, hopeless, anxious, or pessimistic when faced with loss of function, loss of independence, or aging. While these feelings are natural, depression is not a part of aging.
The Threat of Depression in Older Adults
It is not healthy to be persistently sad or seriously depressed for long periods of time. Untreated depression may complicate chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. It is also linked to higher fatality rates from self-harm and cardiac disease. When accompanying functional impairment and disability, depression can make healthcare more costly.
Recognizing depression in older adults starts with knowing the signs and symptoms to look out for. Red flags may include increased sadness, unexplained physical pains, significant weight loss, lack of interest in social activities, sleep problems, slowed speech, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, substance or alcohol abuse, memory problems, and neglect of personal care.
Unfortunately, the symptoms of depression in older adults are often overlooked for a variety of reasons. Apart from the belief that depression comes with the aging process, many depressed older adults live in isolation without others around to detect the signs. Many older adults do not realize the link between depression and physical complaints. They are also less inclined to acknowledge their feelings and may equate treatment with weakness. All these factors can result in failure to notice symptoms of depression and hinder them from receiving the help needed.
Can People Really Have Depression Later in Life?
Depression can affect anyone at any age, regardless of background or accomplishments in life. It is a condition that can interfere with many aspects of a person’s life, including energy, appetite, sleep, work, hobbies, and relationships. Its very nature can lower your self-esteem and diminish your ability to seek help. It can be more difficult for older adults, since most of them were raised in a time when depression was considered a taboo subject. For some, depression remains a highly misunderstood condition, and they don’t realize it is a real illness. Others may be too ashamed to ask for help, and a few are concerned about becoming a burden to their loved ones.
It is important to understand that depression is not a sign of weakness or a character deficiency. With all the challenges of aging, it’s not surprising that depression is one of them. If you are 60 or older and experiencing the symptoms of depression, it doesn’t mean you have to endure the hurt. This is a highly treatable condition. You have the right to feel better and enjoy your golden years without depression.
The Kind of Help You Deserve at Your Age
The first step to wellness is to understand depression in older adults and how it can be effectively eased. Treating depression in older adults is just as effective as it is in young people. The only difference lies in the need to address what may trigger or compound depression in older adults. For example, if a certain medical condition, such as cancer or Parkinson’s disease, is at the root of depression, a personalized treatment plan is developed to consider the other risk factors.
Depression is a medical condition you cannot simply snap out of, but the right treatment can help you enjoy the good quality of life you deserve. Real help comes from Carolina Counseling Services — Pittsboro, NC. There is a licensed, independently contracted with CCS — Pittsboro, NC, who can help you. Just make a call to get started.