How to Help Seniors with Depression

Although at least 6 million elderly adults report symptoms of depression each year, the fact that depression so common among the elderly does not mean it’s a normal part of aging. And although that number seems big, it may actually be much bigger—only about 10 percent of aging adults with clinical depression report their struggles and actually receive depression treatment. This is likely because of the stigma that still surrounds depression, as well as family members’ struggle to understand the signs and know how to get help.

If you are worried that your senior loved one may have depression, take heart and know that there is help, for you and for your loved one. Depression does not have to darken these precious golden years for your family. Try the following 5 ways to help seniors with depression and if you’re struggling with what to do next, contact At Home Personal Care for assistance: (703) 494-3989.

1. Know the Signs of Depression

The signs of depression in older adults are not so different from the signs you might notice in people of other ages. But it’s important to understand that your senior loved one may be reluctant to open up about their struggles with the deep sadness they’re experiencing, so be looking for the following signs:

• Changes in eating habits or appetite
• A change in sleeping habits or patterns (insomnia or the opposite—not wanting to get out of bed at all)
• Low energy levels that seem uncharacteristic for your loved one
• Loss of interest in activities and pursuits they used to really enjoy
• Withdrawing socially
• A noticeable decline in personal hygiene and self-care
• Memory problems not consistent with co-occurring medical conditions
• Reports of pain that are inconsistent with known medical conditions.

Keep in mind that some of these symptoms may also point to other conditions as well, so whether these are associated with depression or not, it’s important to encourage your loved one to take their health seriously and seek medical attention, one way or the other. Their medical provider should always be on the lookout for signs of depression so that it can be effectively treated to improve their quality of life.

2. Take them to Social Activities They Enjoy

Much recent research has established that helping seniors stay socially active can help them with both mental and physical health, boosting their sense of connection to friends, family and the community. This is critical because it combats the feelings many seniors have of growing isolation as they age. Isolation and feelings of loneliness lead to lack of purpose that can be a major trigger for depression. Try helping your loved one attend as many social gatherings as they feel comfortable with. Some potential social activities include:

• Exercise classes
• Teaching a class (sharing their experience or knowledge with others)
• Volunteering for causes they care about
• Going on senior outings and field trips
• Learning a new language, instrument or new skill they’ve always wanted to learn, but never had time for until now
• Attending church services or other meetings that inspire and comfort them
• Invite them to regular family gatherings, dinners and activities

If your family struggles to find a social activity your loved one enjoys, an in-home caregiver can also provide that social connection that may help them combat isolation and depression. Your home care team can also take them out to social events and classes when you are unable to.