Elderly Depression

Having to watch someone deal with depression is difficult and making it even more difficult is watching your parents deal with it. Watching the people who have guided you through life suffer is hard to deal with, especially when you remember how happy and full of life they were. There are a number of things that can cause depression. We have described some of the signs below.

Antisocial behavior
Your loved one used to be the life of the party and now not so much? They don’t want company or always want to stay inside are signs of depression in the elderly.

Mood swings
Is your loved one energetic and happy one minute then sad the next? If you don’t think the mood change started from anything specific there could be an underlying issue.

Aging
Growing old can wear on a person, between the sore joints, memory loss and doctors’ appointments. Not being able to do everything like you did when you were younger is not easy.

Loss
The loss of a loved one is difficult for anyone but especially difficult for the elderly. As your family grows up and it’s just you and your spouse left at home then they pass away, depression and loneliness is very common. The loss of a child is not expected and is usually the most difficult to deal with.

Changes in appearance
Messy hair, dirty clothes, and an overall lack of care about appearances can be a sign of depression.

If you suspect your loved one is suffering from depression, we have put together a list of some of the things you can do to help.

Seek medication
Your loved one might put up a fight about medication but for mental illness it can be very beneficial. Properly managed medication can help boost moods and manage depression.

Set goals
Work with your loved one to develop a list of goals they can achieve to help overcome depression. This list will help them have goals to look forward to.

Create a support system
Be sure your loved ones know you are there for them. Stop over to chat with them often so they are always reminded they are loved and cared for.

Encourage therapy
Having time to talk to a professional can lift weight off of their shoulders, especially if your loved one isn’t comfortable talking to you. Therapy gives them a place to air their problems and as a bonus gets them out of the house.

Don’t smother them
It’s great to talk to and be around your loved one, but try to avoid taking over their tasks. As they age, many people like to continue with their own chores and responsibilities, it’s okay to offer help but not to take over.

You don’t want your loved ones to feel they are suffering alone. Don’t ignore any signs or symptoms, do what you think is most appropriate and make sure to get them help.