The holidays are supposed to be a joyous time to gather with loved ones, make memories, and reflect on the year. However, for people with depression the holidays can be an especially difficult time. The elderly in particular are at greater risk of developing depression and feeling lonely during the holidays. In the long winter months, they may feel more aware of the years slipping by; the absence of deceased spouses, siblings, parents, and friends; and the distance from surviving loved ones. Caretakers and family members of the elderly should be aware of the signs of depression and ensure they receive proper care and treatment should they develop the condition.
According to Mental Health America, depression is a widespread mental health issue that affects more than 21 million Americans each year. Common symptoms of depression include: unrelenting sadness, fatigue, changes in sleep and appetite, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, trouble concentrating, loss of interest in favorite activities, anxiety, and thoughts of death or suicide. Left untreated, depression pulls people down, changes the way they perceive the world, and negatively impacts their ability to work and function in day-to-day life.
The elderly are not immune to depression, and in fact, they may be more susceptible and vulnerable. Up to seven million older adults may suffer from at least some level of depression according to the National Institute of Mental Health. The mental condition is especially dangerous to the elderly, can exacerbate other medical conditions, and impair a senior's ability or will to take care of him or herself. The holidays do not trigger depression, but they can increase feelings of loneliness and sadness. Usually chronic or grave illnesses lead to feelings of depression in the elderly and sometimes it is simply due to an unexplained change in the brain chemistry.
A troubling problem is the fact that depression in the elderly is too often untreated or misdiagnosed as some other condition such as dementia. A qualified geriatric healthcare specialist can differentiate between depression and dementia. Typically, with dementia a person gradually becomes confused and disoriented in once familiar settings. On the other hand, depression causes rapid mental decline with memory and motor skills problems, but they generally remain oriented to place and time. In either case, seniors require medical attention and treatment.
A senior who is not treated for depression can become increasingly lethargic, withdrawn, and irritable but may have trouble expressing feelings. Many seniors come from a generation that is unfamiliar with depression or views it as a character weakness. It is up to caretakers and family members to recognize the signs of the illness and let seniors know it is a treatable condition. Unless they receive treatment, depressed seniors can stop taking care of their health, feel burdensome and worthless, and possibly suffer a premature death.
There are several different treatment options available to the elderly that a geriatric healthcare specialist can prescribe. Often loneliness and the "holiday blues" can be relieved by more frequent visits with loved ones and increased activity in the senior's living community. For seniors with full-blown depression, antidepressants and talk therapy can be beneficial in alleviating symptoms and improving the quality of life. Family members must understand that depression is not a natural stage of aging; nor can the senior simply "get over it" with a changed attitude. With proper treatment, most seniors recover from depression and enjoy a happier, longer life.
If you or someone you love has been affected by depression and needs assistance at home, contact your local Maxim Healthcare Services office to learn more about how we can help with activities of daily living and in-home nursing needs.
This information is not meant as a substitute for professional, medical, or nutritional advice and consultation. When differences exist between the information here and information given to you by your healthcare provider(s), you should follow the advice of your healthcare provider(s). Any additional information or clarification needed should be sought from the Physician, Practitioner, Speech Pathologist, or Nutritionist who is familiar with the individual’s health and medical conditions.