Is Getting a Depression Diagnosis More Likely as We Age?

Every person is sad at times. However, being sad all the time isn’t a normal part of life, even for those who are getting older. Anyone who feels extremely sad or hopeless might be suffering from a case of clinical depression, and they aren’t alone. One in 15 adults struggle with this problem each year. Help is available for these individuals if they know where to turn.

Signs of Depression in Seniors

Sadness is only one symptom of depression. Older individuals might also be anxious or apathetic when they are depressed. To receive a diagnosis of depression though, the adult must have these feelings for a minimum of two weeks and the feelings must interfere with their daily life. They go beyond the sadness most people feel at times. Fortunately, depression counseling online can help.

How Common is Depression in Seniors?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates up to five percent of seniors residing in the general public suffer from major depression. When seniors are hospitalized, this number goes up to 11.5 percent. Older men and women who require home health care are more likely to be depressed. The CDC estimates that 13.5 percent of these individuals struggle with this problem.

Common Causes of Depression in Seniors

Many things put seniors more at risk of depression. They may have a chronic medical condition or find they can’t get around like they used to. Financial problems during retirement can lead to depression or they may be struggling to care for a loved one who is not doing well. A lack of physical activity and chronic pain can bring about these feelings of sadness as can loneliness and isolation.

Treating Depression in Seniors

Depression is highly treatable regardless of the person’s age. However, before starting this treatment, a person needs to have other potential medical conditions diagnosed, as they may come with symptoms similar to depression. For instance, some medications seniors commonly take can bring about symptoms of depression. If medical causes have been ruled out, the doctor will determine the best treatment for the depression.

Antidepressant medications may be of help and come in the form of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. However, some seniors find they do best with counseling, as it helps them overcome negative thought patterns and change their behaviors. In many cases, doctors use a combination of counseling and medication to help the patient. Electroconvulsive therapy is rarely used today and only for those with severe depression.

While medication and counseling are critical components of treatment, many seniors also explore other avenues to support their brain health. There is a growing body of research studying the potential of nootropics for depression to help manage cognitive symptoms that often accompany this condition. Supplements like citicoline, L-Theanine, and Lion’s Mane Mushroom are being studied for their effects on memory, executive function, and emotional well-being, particularly for adults facing these symptoms.

Protecting Mental Health

Seniors can take steps to protect their mental health, although there is no way to prevent depression. Getting adequate sleep can reduce feelings of depression, so every person should try for seven hours each night. Exercise and physical activity help keep feelings of sadness at bay, as does engaging in social activities. Finally, seniors need to eat a healthy diet for their overall health and well-being.

Seeking treatment for depression is not a sign of weakness, although many seniors grew up believing it is. Depression is a medical condition that can and should be treated, just like diabetes or heart failure. With treatment, a person can have a better quality of life and do things they thought they no longer could. Seniors and their families can access specialized programs offering comprehensive depression care to guide them through diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing support. Make an appointment with a doctor today to learn whether the symptoms being experienced are the result of depression and how best to treat them. Seniors deserve the highest quality of life and depression treatment can ensure they have it.