Seniors and Depression

Depression is quite common among older adults but depression is not a normal part of aging. It should not be over looked or go untreated in our older adults. There are many different cause of depression. In some one event can trigger depression. In others it can be a side effect from other medications.

Warning signals friends and family should look for include excessive worrying about financial problems and about their health, frequent tearfulness, difficulty sleeping, pacing and fidgeting and changes in weight. Family members are key to getting seniors into treatment. All to often our older adults don't recognize depression in themselves.

Other illnesses play a role in worsening or even causing depression. They are not as strong as when they were young to fight an illness. This then leads to them falling into depression.

Some older adults may view depression as a weakness. Accepting help is difficult but this is the fist step in treating depression. Support groups are one way to help seniors with acceptance and treatment.

It is important to remember that depression is not just a simple problem that one can snap out of. It is a serious disorder that will need treatment.

The two main treatments for depression are medication and counseling. There are medications for older adults. No one should suffer from depression, find the help you need. If the doctor will not listen try until one does. Antidepressants help to improve sleep, appetite, mood and concentration. There are many types of antidepressants available. The doctor must know all other prescriptions that are being taken in order to prescribe the proper antidepressant.

Depression is treatable. It is not just part of aging. Talk to your health care provider.