Depression Effects on Older Adults
Studies have shown depression as a common problem among older adults. In Canada, it is estimated that over 15% of adults (65 years or older) in the community suffer from depression.
Life circumstances like the loss of a loved one; medical conditions like Alzheimer’s (or other dementia) or a stroke; and certain medications can all make older adults particularly prone to depression.
Loneliness may also be a factor. Everyone needs social connections to survive and thrive. But as people age, they often find themselves spending more time alone. The COVID-19 pandemic and resulting social isolation has brought new focus to this issue. In Canada, ~50% of people over the age of 80 report feeling lonely; men over the age of 80 have the highest suicide rate of all age groups.
Life changes that lead to depression can occasionally happen unexpectedly (death of a dear one), but for older adults, many such changes occur slowly, often are not picked up by family and friends, until the problems become pronounced.
Life Changes that Contribute to Depression
- Adapting to a move from home to an apartment, retirement or care facility
- Chronic pain
- Functional/mobility limitations
- Loss of independence (self care or driving etc.) and fears around further decline
- Feelings of isolation if children move far, or when a spouse or friends pass away
- Lack of regular exercise and other physical activity
- Lack of proper nutrition
- Dependence on alcohol or other addictive substances
- Decline in health due to medical conditions
- Struggles with memory loss, recollection and problem-solving thinking clearly
Signs of Depression in Older Adults
- Being more confused or forgetful
- Eating less - refrigerator may be empty or contain expired / spoiled food
- Decline in proper hygiene. Not bathing or shaving as often. Clothes may be dirty and wrinkled. Presence of body odor or smell of urine or stool.
- Not cleaning or taking care of the home.
- Stopping medicines or not taking them correctly.
- Withdrawing from others - not talking as much, not answering the phone or returning calls, general lack of interest in once pleasurable activities.
- Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings.
- Irritability, restlessness, or having trouble sitting still.
- Moving or talking more slowly.
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions.
- Difficulty sleeping, waking up too early in the morning or oversleeping.
If you notice signs of depression in an aging loved one, you can help:
- Encourage them to seek medical help and set up an appointment with their doctor.
- Accompany them to the appointment, bring up your observations and seek a clear diagnosis and treatment plan. Older adults often tend to present very well with their doctors. Once a treatment plan is received, stress the importance of sticking to it.
- Help them enroll in a support group or adult day program. Social engagement and interaction is critical for the aging loved one.
- Participate in activities they like to do or used to like doing. Spend time, nudge them along because they may not take to it right away.
- Encourage walking or basic home-based exercise on a regular basis to stimulate muscle fitness and circulation benefits. They key is regularity of effort.
Regularity and routine are critical for success of the above-mentioned tasks in supporting an aging loved one dealing with depression. Depression and loneliness cannot be reversed overnight. However, if keeping such regularity and routine is difficult for family members, then the support of a professional caregiver can go a long way toward helping an aging loved one who is depressed or suffering from health and cognitive decline as a result of loneliness and isolation.
