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Depression can be a very serious concern. It can wreak havoc on a young, healthy person. However, depression in the elderly is an even more serious concern. It can come on slowly or suddenly and often goes unnoticed. Staying familiar with elderly neighbors, friends and family is an important step in battling this disorder. Everyone should be aware of the signs and symptoms that a depressed person may exhibit.

There are many things that can cause depression including, grief, financial problems, lack of family support, and health problems. In the elderly depression can sometimes go unseen. This is due in part to the solitary lifestyle of some seniors. Children grow up and move away. Other family members pass on and friends also age. Many times seniors are faced with living alone or with an aging spouse and being cut off from society. Aging individuals lose the ability to drive or even do simple errands such as going to the grocery store or pharmacy. All of these things can lead to serious depression in the elderly.

Depression itself can present in many different ways. Tearfulness and obvious sadness are the most obvious clues. However, the elderly person may also suffer appetite loss, they may become withdrawn, not answer calls or return messages. It is important for neighbors, family friends or family to be aware of these warning signals. A depressed person may not be suicidal but in an elderly person depression can still impact health negatively.

Depression is easily treatable with help from a physician. The elderly person should see their physicians on a regular basis. The primary physician that is familiar with an elderly patient may even be able to see some warning signs of depression. Once the depression is identified, there are many different medications and even therapy that can be provided for treatment. In larger cities there are mobile crisis units and even therapists that provide therapy in the home to homebound individuals.

Understanding and being able to identify the warning signs are very important in recognizing depression in the elderly. Family members, friends and neighbors must all play a role in recognizing the signs in the elderly. Seniors do not want to alarm family members that are not living close by and do not want to burden their neighbors and friends with any concerns. However, it has to be understood that depression in the elderly person can be detrimental to their health.

Learn more about this author, Kristie Janeway Jernigan BS MHA.
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