|  | Conditions Treatments | Depression

Geriatrics & Depression

For most people, growing old comes with a host of new physical and emotional challenges. Although aging is a natural part of life, it can mean deep sadness and despair as one reaches the final years of their life. Depression itself is not a natural part of the aging process, and being able to detect and treat it can help to ensure that the elderly are able to enjoy life.

  1. Geriatric Depression: Numbers

    • According to a 2001 study conducted by the American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP), 15 percent of American seniors suffer from depression. That number rises to 25 percent for people suffering from chronic illness. Also, 50 percent of seniors living in an institutionalized setting meet the diagnostic criteria for depression. The illness is especially prevalent among those who have had a stroke or who suffer from Parkinson's disease, cancer, arthritis, Alzheimer's disease or heart disease.

    The Geriatric Depression Scale

    • The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) is a 30-question, self-assessment designed to identify depression in seniors. The questions have yes or no questions. The GDS is not used alone to diagnose depression; rather, it is meant to be part of a comprehensive assessment. According to minddisorders.com, sample questions include: "Are you basically satisfied with your life?" "Have you dropped many of your activities and interests?" "Are you hopeful about the future?" "Do you often get restless and fidgety?" "Do you frequently get upset over little things?" and "Do you enjoy getting up in the morning?"

    Symptoms of Depression

    • Depression in seniors is harder to treat than in the general population because of other factors such as stroke, dementia, medical illness and other conditions whose symptoms may emulate depression. Generally, however, symptoms of depression in seniors include sadness, fatigue, abandonment or loss of interest in hobbies or pastimes, social withdrawal and isolation, weight loss or decrease in appetite, sleep disturbances, loss of self-worth, alcohol or drug abuse or a fixation on death.

    Signs of Geriatric Depression

    • Seniors who are struggling with depression often exhibit behaviors that serve as clues to those caring for them that they are suffering. The individual may suddenly complain of unexplained aches or pains; they may talk of feelings of hopelessness or helplessness; they may have increased anxiety or worries; memory problems; or loss of feeling of pleasure. They may move slower than usual, become irritable and neglect personal hygiene and health.

    Causes of Geriatric Depression

    • Growing old for many people means significant life changes and stressors. In addition to a family history of depression, individuals particularly at risk are those with a drug or alcohol habit, failing health, and a poor support network. Many depressed seniors have a difficult time coping with loneliness and isolation due to family and friends passing away, living alone, loss of driving privileges, or living in a nursing institution. Many lose their sense of purpose as they retire from work or become physically limited in their activities. Health problems and some medications exacerbate depression. People may struggle with their fears during this time in their lives: fear of dying, or anxiety over health and financial issues. They may also be trying to cope with the loss of a pet, spouse or friends.

Depression - Related Articles