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Many of you think depression is a normal part of the aging process, but it is not. As with depression at any age, it is important to accurately diagnose and treat depression. Depression is treatable, and this is true in those 65 and older as well. Psychotherapy and/or medications may be used.
Older Americans are at higher risk for committing suicide than any other age group. The U.S. national suicide rate is about 11/100,000 persons. Males 85 and older have the highest suicide rate and it is 5 times the overall rate or 55/100,000 persons.
Symptoms are the same as in other age populations and can include:
- depressed mood (may include irritability)
- feeling guilty or worthless
- poor energy, feeling fatigued or tired
- poor concentration or focus (short-term memory problems that are not dementia)
- not enjoying things as one usually does
- isolating oneself form others, withdrawing
- feeling as if one is a burden or is not loved or cared about
- irritability, restlessness, nervousness
- changes in sleep patterns, may sleep more or less
- changes in appetite, may eat more or less
- persistent headaches, upset stomach or chronic pain
There are not medications recommended specifically for the elderly to treat depression. A medication choice will be based on other medications the patient is taking, patient preference, other medical illnesses and past medication trials, if any. Possible side effects can be used to one's advantage.
An example would be taking a sedating medication at bedtime when insomnia is a symptom of the depression. If poor appetite and weight loss are a part of the depression, a medication that may stimulate the appetite could be used.
If you are older and suspect you're depressed, see a health care provider. And if you know someone who is elderly and suspect they may have depression, encourage the person to see their health care provider.
Please share your experiences with us.
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