How to Treat Depression in the Elderly Without Medication

Depression is a serious risk for the elderly. Chronic illnesses, the death of friends and loved ones and feelings of social isolation can add up to a recipe for despair in older adults. Treating this condition is important, since depression in the elderly tends to not go away on its own.

Instructions

• 1

  Check to see if any medications the elderly person is taking could be causing or contributing to depression. Some pain medications, cancer drugs, hormones and other treatments can trigger depression in patients. See the link below in References for a list of common culprits.

• 2

  Encourage the elderly person to see a therapist. Therapy can help the elderly patient work through her feelings and ensure that she always has a sympathetic ear to listen to her.

• 3

  Ensure the elderly person has an active social life. Make sure he visits friends and family several times a week and engages in activities he enjoys.

• 4

  Have the depressed person take up a hobby. Keeping active with interesting and challenging activities wards off dementia and battles depression.

• 5

  Suggest the elderly person take up yoga, meditation or tai chi. All of these activities can focus the mind and help defeat the destructive thoughts that come with depression.