Nurses Know! - Recognizing Depression in Older Adults

By: Lisa Whitney RN
Loss is painful whether it is a loss of independence, mobility, health, career, or someone you love. Grieving over these losses is normal, even if the feelings of sadness last for weeks or months. Losing all hope and joy, however, is not normal. It’s depression.
Untreated depression poses serious risks for older adults, including illness, alcohol and prescription drug abuse, a higher mortality rate, and even suicide.
Recognizing depression in the elderly can be difficult, since many people believe it is a normal part of the aging process. As we age, it is normal to experience sadness when facing changes in capabilities, or sorrow at the loss of loved ones, however, we also continue to feel happiness, joy, contentment, and other positive emotions.
It’s important to watch for the warning signs of depression and seek professional help when you recognize it.
Signs and symptoms of depression:

• Unexplained or aggravated aches and pains
• Hopelessness
• Helplessness Anxiety and worries
• Loss of feeling of pleasure
• Slowed movement Irritability
• Memory problems
• Lack of interest in personal care (skipping meals, forgetting medications, neglecting personal hygiene)

Depression in the elderly has underlying causes and treatment is complex in that it involves consideration of the role of current disease, memory changes, various medications, and the status of the patient's support systems. Optimum results are achieved with a management approach that incorporates a system of collaborative care.

References

Ashok, R., & Md. (2004, June 1). Depression in the elderly. In Symposium on geriatric psychiatry (Postgraduate Medicine). Retrieved February 9, 2008, from The Practical Peer Reviewed for Primary Care Physicans: www.postgradmed.com.

Notes: This blog post reflects the work of Lisa Whitney RN with minor editing by Shirley Comer RN and was completed as a class assignment. The information in this blog is for informational purposes only. Before beginning or changing a treatment or lifestyle regime you should consult your primary health care provider.