Risks of depression during old age - What is the role of the family? Mental health and wellbeing in older age is as important as any other age group. Even though mental health issues are prevalent in all age groups, it is seniors who experience some sort of mental issue.
According to a survey conducted by WHO, the world’s population is ageing rapidly. It is estimated that between 2015 and 2050, 60 or older people proportion in the world’s population will nearly double, from 12% to 22%. And, it is also estimated that more than 16% of older adults suffer from some sort of mental disorder, including depression. The risks of depression in older adults The way depression impacts older people is different than how it appears in younger people. In many cases depression in elders is a consequence of existing medical conditions, disabilities, or loss of a loved one. And, prolonged depression is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular conditions and hypertension which is a great contributor of stroke. What are the signs of depression in seniors? Depression is expressed in many different ways in seniors. Few seniors experience physical symptoms, and a few experience mental signs as a result of loneliness in elders. Physical symptoms include skin rashes, irritability, changes in appetite, and
mental symptoms including sadness, feeling worthlessness, fatigue, feeling tired and so on. What are the types of geriatric depression? Based on the reasons and symptoms, there are various types of depression. Learn more about the different types of geriatric depression. Stick with us till the end of the blog to know more about the types of depression in elderly. 1. Clinical Depression Also known as major depression, clinical depression in elders causes a constant feeling of hopelessness and despair in life. This sensation disrupts the day to day living by interrupting sleep, work, and other activities. This type tends to have severe complications if not addressed appropriately. 2. Manic Depression Medically referred as dysthymia, this type will have mild complications compared to major depression. However, it is a chronic depression. This depression can lead to periods of symptoms that are observed in major depression which brings it the name ‘double depression.’ 3. Atypical Depression Atypical depression shares its symptoms of major and dysthymic depression. The symptoms include increased hunger, sleeplessness or excessive sleep, feeling tired for no apparent reason, mood swings based on the environment and mental sensitivity. What is the medical help available? Depression has no particular cause or treatment available. Finding a better therapy for geriatric depression takes time. However, the regular treatment options like medication, and lifestyle changes help them to get relieved from the symptoms. Medications that are a combination of tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), bupropion and mirtazapine. What are the typical lifestyle changes available?
Lifestyle changes and family support plays an instrumental role in getting proper treatment for depression in seniors. Increasing physical activity, engaging social life, sufficient sleep on a daily basis, and eating a well-balanced and nutritionally rich diet helps in getting the enhanced therapy or treatment outcome. What is the role of a family in geriatric depression? Isolation in seniors, personal and physical issues are the major reasons behind geriatric depression. Showing seniors that they are being cared, loved and are being looked after is extremely important. If you have a senior at home or if your parents are living alone, make time for them every day without missing. Involve them in family gatherings and get togethers. Family functions are a great way to show the bonding that one has for each other. The kind of energy and enthusiasm your seniors will receive from such gatherings would surprise you. Make sure you also rely more than needed on the expressions of love, care, and affection. This can be starting from cooking your mom and dad’s favourite dish to taking them for a walk in the evening. And, being vocal about what you feel as a senior is a great way to tackle depression in its early stages itself. Be it a mental issue or physical issue, be expressive about it with your loved one, or a family member or friends. Assisted living facilities, senior living communities and retirement communities allow seniors to make new friends and pursue new hobbies. They can be the effective alternatives for seniors who are living all by themselves.