Depression is something that even the most well-balanced aging adult can experience. Unfortunately, it can be extremely difficult to recognize in aging adults, which can often mean that it goes untreated. Here is some information that can help you learn more about elderly depression.
She’s at Much Greater Risk
Older adults are much more prone to depression, particularly because of the fact that they’re more prone to chronic illnesses. Feeling terrible can often lead directly to depression and if your aging family member has more than one chronic illness, she’s likely dealing with some degree of depression. Older adults may also be dealing with grief, either due to their own diagnoses or because they’ve lost people that they love.
It’s Easy to Miss the Signs
Some of the signs of depression in the elderly are similar to the ones experienced by much younger people. Feeling hopeless, feeling extreme sadness, or even suicidal thoughts are common. Some other signs, such as chronic pain, appetite loss, and fatigue, can often be lumped in with symptoms of other illnesses. This often means that those signs are overlooked.
Other Health Conditions Can Mask Depression
But what if your elderly family member isn’t feeling excessively sad or experiencing suicidal thoughts? She might still be depressed and not realize it herself. Chronic health conditions can mask the symptoms of depression even more because they’re so similar. As a result, your elderly family member’s existing symptoms are that much worse than they should be, due to the depression.
Your Aging Adult Can Benefit from Help
Talk to your elderly family member’s doctor if you are concerned that she might be experiencing depression. Even if you’re just not sure, an assessment can’t hurt. Hiring experienced elderly care providers can also help you to spot the signs of depression. As close as you are to your aging adult, it might be easier for you to miss something that would stand out to someone else.
The more that you and your elderly family member pay attention to the signs when they crop up, the easier it will be for you to get her the help that she needs, when she needs it.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING IN-HOME ELDERLY CARE IN LAS VEGAS, NV, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT GOLDEN HEART SENIOR CARE. CALL TODAY 702-800-4616.