Depression Doesn’t Have to be a Part of Growing Old

By Denise Taylor, RN, BSW

Depression is the most common undiagnosed condition amongst seniors; however it’s incorrect to think that it is just a normal part of aging. When a person is depressed, neurotransmitter chemicals in the brain are out of balance. Because depression can coexist with other chronic diseases, the diagnosis can be made confusing. We all have feelings of highs and lows throughout life or periods of grief due to losses we may suffer, but if the low feelings continue for weeks and interfere with the enjoyment of life, it is time to consult with a physician.

Elderly depression should not go untreated as it can lead to death. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depressive symptoms afflict an estimated fifteen percent of all people over the age of 65. The suicide rate for elderly white males is several times higher than that of white men in their early twenties. Worldwide, statistics show that the seniors kill themselves at a higher rate than any other segment of the population.

The primary causes of depression may include one or more of the following:
• the death of a spouse or friend
• loss of physical capabilities
• changes in living situations
• dwindling financial resources
• side effects of medications
• biological changes in the brain that accompany problems such as strokes and dementia
• hardening of vessels which constricts normal blood flow to organs, including the brain
• diseases, such as anemia and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
• social isolation, a reduced sense of purpose and a fear of death

A genetic or family history of depression and personality factors (for example, people with low self-esteem or those with tendencies toward pessimism) may further contribute to depression.

While the cause of any person’s depression may not be clear, the consequences of ignoring the symptoms are. Depressed people do not take pleasure in people or activities that they once enjoyed. There are frequent feelings of sadness and emptiness, sleep disorders (too much or too little) weight gain or loss, irritability, restlessness and a loss of energy. Other symptoms may include periods of crying, difficulty concentrating and thoughts of suicide or death. Leaving symptoms untreated can cause a whole life to deteriorate. Some can impair mental ability and cause family members to blame it on “senility or old age.” The senior may become dependent on others prematurely.

But there is good news. Depression is a treatable psychological illness and nobody is too old to get help. Depending on the nature or severity of the illness, the most common treatments are psychotherapy, anti-depressant medications, or a combination of both. Psychotherapy helps by teaching coping skills to get through the patient’s problems, and offers support to ease the pain of depression. Medications help control certain symptoms and enable the depressed person to feel better. Anti-depressant medications alter the chemicals in the brain to improve the patient’s mood, sleep habits, eating habits, energy levels and ability to concentrate. Anti-depressants need to be monitored for side effects and effectiveness and are not habit forming. Be aware that alcohol abuse may coexist with depression as seniors try to self-treat their symptoms. Both disorders must be addressed in order to maximize the effectiveness of treatments.

If given a choice, most elderly people would choose to stay in their own homes rather than in a care facility. The familiar comfort of their home and community can decrease the chances of depression. If the depressed senior lives alone or has family that is unable to provide the necessary care for them, hiring a caregiver from a reputable agency can be beneficial. A hired caregiver gives the depressed care recipient structure to his or her day. To minimize the symptoms of depression, a caregiver can provide another set of eyes and ears for the family as well as companionship, a balanced diet, assistance with grooming, supervision of medications and a safe exercise routine. A hired caregiver can also provide transportation and opportunities to keep in touch with the community.

Encouragement to seek treatment for depression may require patience and understanding from family members. But the effort is important because depression is treatable, and not just a part of growing old.

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About Denise Taylor, RN, BSW

Denise Taylor is a Registered Nurse and is currently the Administrator of the Visiting Angels office in Vienna, Virginia. She is also the coordinator for Medicaid clients. Mrs.
Taylor received her RN at age 19 and gained extensive hospital nursing experience at
Lenox Hill Hospital in New York and the Berlin Army Hospital in Germany before taking a sabbatical to raise three children. At age 48 she returned to school and earned a Bachelor of Social Work degree from George Mason University. Mrs. Taylor has special interests in end of life issues. She is an Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) Qualified Dementia Care Provider. While working as a social work intern for Mary Washington Hospice in Fredericksburg, VA, she experienced first-hand the desire that seniors have to age in place. Since then, her goal has been to enhance the lives of seniors by facilitating care in the home whenever possible.

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