Depression among the elderly is something that is often misdiagnosed and misunderstood.  Some of the signs and symptoms are often associated with aging or another medical condition, making it harder to diagnose.  Most people assume that depression is a normal part of aging when in fact it is not.  Depression can also be difficult to detect because at times older adults will not admit they are experiencing symptoms or they think it is a matter they should deal with privately.

Some people assume that their parents are just down in the dumps and will eventually come out of it so they do not take the necessary steps to help them seek treatment.  It is normal to be down and have the blues at one time or another.  There are going to be times when one will experience sadness and frustration with having to deal with feelings of loss, guilt, grief, etc.  What is not normal is for these feelings to continue for weeks and months on end with no improvement.  When these feelings impact your overall lifestyle making it difficult to undertake normal activities it is time to seek help.

Detecting depression in the elderly can be difficult due to several reasons.  As mentioned, one of those reasons is because the older adult will not admit they are having the signs and symptoms or may also hide those feeling and act happy when family and friends are around.  They are masking their real feelings so they do not upset those they love.  Other factors that can contribute to making it hard to detect depression can be the loss of spouse or close friend, chronic pain and illness, frustration with memory loss, difficulty adapting to change such as moving from home to a retirement community.  Keep in mind that there is a normal grieving process when we suffer such losses, but be aware that grief can lead to depression and when this is the case an outside intervention is often needed.

Below are some signs and symptoms to be aware of if you think your loved one is becoming depressed.  If you do suspect someone you know is depressed the first step to take is to contact their doctor.  There are many treatment options, including but not limited to support groups, individual counseling, and medications.

• Signs of fatigue and reduced energy.

• Loosing contact with family and friends.

• Change in appetite- usually a loss of appetite.

• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping all day long.

• Change in mood- often an increase in agitation.

For more information regarding how St. Andrew’s At Home Services can help you please contact your Eldercare Specialist, Heather O’Brien, at 314-802-5106 or hobrien@standrews1.com.