Depression goes beyond feeling sad as it is a serious mood disorder that requires professional treatment. The symptoms of depression can be so severe that they affect your ability to engage in daily activities such as work, sleeping, personal care and eating. In older adults, depression is not a normal part of the aging process and this is a major concern as many are leading lives filled with sadness, stress and unease. This article will look into the causes of depression in older adults, signs of depression, and how to overcome depression for older adults.

Causes of Depression in Older Adults

• Genetics

In families where there is a history of depression, people are more likely to develop depression when compared to families with no history of the illness. While some might be affected at a younger age, others are affected late in life.

• Health Problems

Most older adults are prone to severe illnesses, chronic pain, disability or cognitive decline. Such damages to the body or physical restrictions as a result of illness or surgery can result to depression in older adults.

• A Reduced Sense of Purpose

Life after retirement can result to a loss in status, identity, financial security or self-confidence. Individuals will feel as though they are no longer making any tangible contributions to the society or themselves and this increases the chances of depression.

• Individual’s Personal History

For older adults who experienced depression in their younger years, there is an increased risk of developing depression late in life. In many cases even when treated, some of the symptoms may return in these individuals as they age.

• Loneliness and Isolation

Contributory factors such as living alone, declining social circles as a result of relocation or death and decreased movements due to illness can cause depression.

• Stress

Losing a loved one, anxiety over health issues or financial problems are some of the stress factors that can result in depression. Overthinking and uncertainty over the future are stressful situations that may trigger depression in older adults.

Signs of Depression in Older Adults

• Feeling of sadness or despair.
• Weight changes due to increased or decreased appetite.
• Unexplained body aches and pains.
• Lack of interest in hobbies and social withdrawal.
• Lack of energy or increased fatigue.
• Irregular sleep patterns.
• Inability to make decisions or solve problems.
• Suicidal thoughts.
• Increased use or abuse of alcohol and drugs.
• Neglecting personal care.
• Memory loss.

Overcoming Depression in Older Adults

• Counseling Therapy

Seeking therapy works in cases of depression as it addresses underlying causes of depression. One can opt for supporting counseling in peer or religious groups which can ease loneliness and hopelessness allowing them to find purpose in life. One-on-one therapy sessions can help change the negative thinking patters and develop better skills to cope with depression. Support groups are also effective as they help you connect with others going through similar experiences like bereavement. These are safe spaces where individuals can receive encouragement, advice and share experiences.

• Medication

Antidepressants help the brain in improving the way it uses certain chemicals that control our mood or stress. Most antidepressants take about 2 to 4 weeks to work, however, they address symptoms such as concentration challenges, appetite and sleep. Patience while taking the medication is required so as to assess whether it works. Older adults need to take antidepressants under close supervision of a physician as they could have some adverse effects due to age.

• Acquire Healthy Habits

Healthy habits such as regular exercise, eating a balanced diet and better sleep quality build strength and boost an individual’s mood. Simple and safe exercises or light housework can help keep depression at bay or improve symptoms. Healthy eating should start by minimizing refined foods and sugars and opting for healthy and quality foods that will be filling and leave you emotionally balanced.

• Companion Care

Sometimes family members might be busy with other engagements and therefore unable to be present all the time. Loss due to death also results in loneliness and with the COVID-19 pandemic, isolation has become another cause of depression in older adults. Companion care ensures that the individual has someone around to talk to, support them in their hobbies, take them to social events or run errands and help in light housekeeping duties. Check out these available options for companion care.

• Stay Connected to Family and Friends

In this digital age and with the COVID-19 pandemic, social gatherings and being around the older adults is quite challenging, therefore, technology is one way to keep us connected. Being in touch with our loved ones will reduce chances of depression as we are able to share how we feel and what we are going through.

• Find Purpose in Life

After retirement, it is important to find something that adds meaning to your life as an older adult. It could be volunteering in the community, learning a new skill or travelling. These will help you remain socially active and also give you a sense of self-worth.