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It’s natural for people – at any age – to be sad sometimes. After the death of a loved one. At the need to leave a home where one has been happy. Because of ill health … But depression is a treatable medical condition, not a “normal” part of aging.
Depression affects over 6 million Americans over the age of 65. Depression can sometimes be “triggered” by an event – something like grief or diagnosis with a serious illness. Or it can simply occur, like any medical condition.
“My father, who’s 85 was always the most active and positive person in the family. My mother died 18 months ago and of course my father was devastated. So was I. But he seemed to bounce back and start enjoying life again after three or four months. He went back to working in his garden.
But in the last three months or so he’s been constantly “down.” Some days he hardly got out of bed. He wouldn’t read like he always had and he let the garden go all to weeds. He stopped seeing his friends. I didn’t know what to do. I finally convinced him to talk to talk to his doctor. The doctor diagnosed him as having depression and started treatment with medication. He’s not back to his old self yet, but he’s already fussing about what a mess the garden is.”
What is Depression?
When sadness or a “blue mood” goes on for an extended period of time, when it interferes with someone’s activities or with their enjoyment of life – then the person may be suffering from depression.
Some of the warning signs of possible depression are:
- Continual or constant depressed mood
- Loss of pleasure in things usually enjoyed
- Change in sleep pattern – sleeping more or less, or disturbed sleep
- Feeling anxious or fidgety
- Loss of energy
- Sudden memory problems, loss of focus
- Thoughts or talk of suicide
What are the Effects of Depression?
Aside from depression’s effect on a persons quality of life, it can also make other medical conditions worse. Depression and another illness can become a vicious cycle, feeding off each other. Depression often makes it more likely that a person will neglect care of her / his health or general well being. This can lead to a worsening of the other illness, which can in turn contribute to worsening of the depression. In the most tragic cases, depression can lead to suicide. Persons age 65 and older account for 19% of all deaths by suicide in the US.
What can be Done to Treat Depression?
Depression is a serious medical condition – but it can be treated. It is critical to seek help. Don’t worry about whether it’s really depression or not. If you or a loved one is showing signs of depression – if a constant blue mood is interfering with the ability to enjoy life – seek professional help. Depression is not a sign of weakness – it is a medical condition.
Be your own or your loved ones best advocate. Many healthcare professionals are not experts at recognizing depression – especially among the elderly. Insist on getting an evaluation by a professional who understands caring for the aging and understands depression.
If you or a loved one is thinking or talking about suicide, seek help immediately! Go to an emergency room if necessary.
For assistance on seeking help with depression or any other question about please contact Connections, the Jewish Home Lifecare information and referral service.
Be well. Stay well.