What causes depression in older adults

Why depression is underdiagnosed in older adults? Can social support be bad thing for older adults? Is depression a normal part of getting older? What are the signs of depression in older adults?

In fact, studies show that most older adults feel satisfied with their lives, despite having more illnesses or physical problems. Clinical depression in the elderly is common.

Late-life depression affects about million Americans ages and older. But only receive treatment for depression. But after adjusting, many older adults feel well again. It is a medical condition that interferes with daily life and normal functioning. It is not a normal part of aging, a sign of weakness, or a character flaw.

Many older adults with depression need treatment to feel better. Many of the usual symptoms of depression may be seen. Common symptoms such as fatigue, appetite loss, and trouble sleeping can be part of the aging process or a physical illness.

However, depression in older adults may be hard to detect. As a result, early depression may be ignore or confused with other conditions that are common in older adults. Even though it’s common, it’s not a. Unfortunately, depression often goes undiagnosed and untreated in older adults, and they may feel reluctant to seek help. Depression symptoms in older adults. Geriatric depression is a mental and emotional disorder affecting older adults.

Feelings of sadness and occasional blue” moods are normal. In older adults, those who had depression when they were younger are more at risk to develop depression later in life. The National Institute on Aging (NIA) says that there is one factor that can potentially increase depressive symptoms beyond the more common causes of depression in older adults such as genetics, altered brain chemistry, a history of depressive issues, and high levels of stress. Over half of cases represent a first onset in later life.

Although suicide rates in the elderly are declining, they are still higher than in younger. Older adults have the highest rates of suicide of any age group, and this is particularly pronounced among men. Chronic medical ailments can cause depression in older adults and the elderly. The depressive feelings in older adults and seniors are often associated with physical illness, which increases the risk of depression.

Medical problems and the losses we experience as we age can affect how we view ourselves and how we relate to the world around us. These changes can affect our mood and mental health. So that is the goal for today is to help everybody understand what depression in older adults is, what it can be caused by, and how.

Identifying Risk Factors for Anxiety.

Like depression , anxiety disorders are often unrecognized and undertreated in older adults. Anxiety can worsen an older adult’s physical health, decrease their ability to perform daily activities, and decrease feelings of well-being. This brochure describes the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for depression in older adults. Studies show that most seniors feel satisfied with their lives, despite having more illnesses or physical problems.

However older adults are at an increased risk for experiencing depression. If you are concerned about a loved one, offer to go with him or her to see a health care provider to be diagnosed and treated.