By Richard J. Capiola, MD
Everyone has feeling of sadness and loneliness from time to time. This is a normal part of life and growing older. However, when these feelings last for long periods of time and take away from day-to-day life, they need to be treated.
It is estimated that more than 6 million adults over the age of 65 suffer from depression, according to WebMD. It is also believed that less than half of those adults seek help. Although common, depression is not a normal part of aging. It is treatable and doctors and psychiatrists can help.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression over 65
Depression affects older adults differently than younger people. In seniors, depression often goes undiagnosed and untreated because it goes along with other medical problems or disabilities. For these reasons, depression in older adults can be tied to a higher risk of cardiac diseases and contribute to an early death from other illnesses. Studies of patients with physical illnesses in nursing homes have shown that depression can significantly increase the likelihood of death from those illnesses. It is also linked to an increased risk of death after a heart attack. This is why it is so important to recognize depression and get treatment. Here are some signs of depression in older adults:
• Feeling tired but having trouble sleeping
• Being grumpy
• Feeling confused
• Struggling to pay attention
• No longer enjoying activities that once brought
joy
• Feeling hopeless, worthless, or guilty
• Having suicidal thoughts
KEEPING DEPRESSION AT BAY
What can I do to keep from becoming depressed as I age? Can depression be prevented? Can I lower the risk of depression for me or my loved one?
If you or someone you love is experiencing the symptoms listed above, don’t just chalk it up to old age. As we’ve said, it is a common problem in aging, but that doesn’t make it “normal”.
It is important not to wait for an aging loved one to reach out and ask for help. Many adults over age 65 are not well informed about depression. Some don’t believe it even exists as a medical condition. They often believe that feelings should not be talked about and that they should handle these types of problems themselves.
Not waiting for aging family members to ask for help also involves helping them to find ways not to fall into depression. There are many things that can help to ward off depression. Being proactive is key.
Ways to avoid depression
1. Research shows that loneliness and isolation can have a detrimental effect on our health. If a senior adult lives alone and is unable to drive or get out of the house much, there is a greater risk of feeling lonely or isolated. Older adults who live alone are at a higher risk for injuries from falls and they often suffer from a decline in cognitive function. Maintaining connections is crucial for our well-being. For a senior living alone, regular visits from family, friends, or even a care-giver are of utmost importance. Taking time to allow your family member to talk, listen, and genuinely interact is critical.
2. Help them to be a part of a community. This can be though a social club, church/Bible study group, retirement community, assisted living community, or even a nursing home. Being surrounded by others and having regular opportunities to interact and maintain connections can keep feelings of isolation and loneliness at bay. Eating meals with others, engaging in activities together, or being in a book club or exercise group are all ways to help senior adults not to feel alone.
3. If we have learned anything from this pandemic, it is the importance of social media! If your family member enjoys browsing through family photos or catching up with friends on Facebook, help them to stay connected through technology. Research shows that social media has a positive effect on seniors, helping them to feel connected even when living alone. In a 2018 survey, more than half of those born between 1945 and 1964 use social media. If your loved one is on social media, make sure to help them maintain that connection.
4. Another proven way to avoid depression is exercise. Regular walks in nature can lift the spirits and boost mood. If going outside is not an option, there are plenty of ways to stay active indoors. There are videos for all levels of physical activity that can be helpful. Whether it be doing yoga or simple chair exercises, the benefits of physical activity on our body and mind are tremendous.
5. Finally, one of the best ways to avoid depression is to find a sense of purpose. Help your senior loved one feel like they are contributing and making a difference in someone’s life or in the community. Help them to volunteer at a local food bank or an animal shelter. Allow them to help children with homework, be it their grandchildren at the kitchen table or other children in a community center. Take them to play music at a local nursing home. Find a spot for them to grow vegetables or flowers to share with friends and neighbors. Dig into their passions and help them find ways to use their talents. There are many ways to get involved and find a sense of purpose at any age.
Don’t allow depression to get your senior loved one down. Depression can be a debilitating illness, but it doesn’t have to diminish your loved one’s quality of life. Consider the tips offered here and explore more options by researching online or talking to a professional.
Dr. Richard J. Capiola is a psychiatrist in Naples, Florida and is affiliated with Willough at Naples Hospital. He received his medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine and has been in practice for more than 20 years. Call Dr. Capiola today at 239-649-7494.
Dr. Richard J. Capiola
239.649.7494
704 Goodlette Frank Road North, Suite 222
Naples, Florida 34102