Depression in the elderly can be difficult to person as old age brings along a multitude of other disorders and diseases related to the brain. These maladies should be considered first since it is most likely that an old timer is suffering from one of these conditions instead. Depression in elderly women and men is usually triggered following a serious event such as loss of a spouse, certain medical conditions such as heart disease or dementia as well as prescription drugs.
Depression in elderly people is often misconstrued as dementia. Dementia is any issue with the brain that cripples various thought processes in the person. it can be mistaken as dementia usually produce virtually the same symptoms as depression in its early stages. Symptoms such as having a negative perception as well as negative emotions, being aloof and distant as well as feeling apathetic are common with both conditions. Due to this, it is important to diagnose the patient for dementia as well beforehand.
Depression and the elderly are fairly consistent as far as symptoms are concerned in comparison to other age groups. It should be noted that symptoms usually associated with the disorder may already be present in elderly people due to their old age. This can make diagnosing depression in the elderly a hurdle as well. Some symptoms typical signs of the disorder that are also present with old age include pain in random places, fatigue, difficulty waking up after a nap, loss of weight, lack of energy and loss of weight. Specific symptoms usually comprise of changes in perception such as feeling hopeless, worthless, having no sense of direction and purpose as well as other negative emotions.
Another common reason for elderly and depression is loneliness. As people get older, it is common for them to have no company particularly if they have lost their spouse. While their children may be around, they may not have as much time for them. Due to this, an excellent way of alleviating depression in the elderly is via talk therapy. A support group in particular would be ideal for a number of reasons. It would help the person express their feelings and let it out. It would help them get their mind off when they are having support group meetings and it would give them new acquaintances which would get rid of the feeling of loneliness.
Besides talk therapy, numerous other treatments can be incorporated. It would be a good idea to steer clear from conventional therapy such as antidepressants however, as it could have serious side effects particularly in older people.