What Are the Treatments for Clinical Depression in the Elderly?

Depression in the elderly is common and can often be overlooked by health care professionals or family. Many older adults may be afraid to ask for help believing they cannot be helped or may be abandoned by family or friends.

Diagnosis

• The first step in treating depression in the elderly is a proper diagnosis. If you are a loved are experiencing symptoms or depression, seek care from your physician or mental health care provider.

Self Help

• Often, one can help themselves in overcoming some of the symptoms of depression. Loneliness is a major symptom of depression. Volunteering, visiting with friends or planning recreational activities can help.

Couseling

• Talking through problems can be an effective treatment for depression. Often a counselor can help you develop an effective treatment plan for dealing with your depression.

Antidepressants

• Antidepressant medications can help relieve the symptoms of depression. Often the therapist or psychiatrist will use a combination therapy of counseling and antidepressant medications.

Electroconvulsive therapy

• Electroconvulsive therapy involves applying a brief electrical pulse to the scalp producing a seizure. This therapy can be used for severely depressed individuals when other forms of treatment for depression have failed.