Geriatric Depression Treatment

Geriatric depression is a widespread problem experienced by 8 to 20 percent of older people who live in the community and 37 percent of those who live in care facilities, according to the Centers for Disease Control. It is not, however, an inevitable part of growing old. By looking at the causes, symptoms, medical treatment and other therapies, older people and their families can learn how to treat geriatric depression and go on to live happier, more fulfilling lives.

Causes

• Older people experience many losses. They may have outlived their spouse, siblings, friends and even their children. Their health is not as robust as when they were younger; in fact, they often cope with serious health issues that limit their activities. They may be forced to give up some of the things that gave them pleasure in their younger days, from favorite foods to travel to hobbies that require keen eyesight or physical strength. In other words, they often have good reason to be sad and experience a sense of loss.
  Depression, however, is different. Depression is persistent, and it interferes with a person's ability to function normally. Depression often accompanies heart disease, cancer and other serious illnesses, but it needs to be treated as a separate health concern in order to facilitate the patient's return to a high quality of life. According to the CDC, the failure to treat depression may lead to disability and impede recovery from the other health issues the patient is experiencing.

Symptoms

• The CDC lists the following as symptoms that may indicate depression:
  • Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
  • Irritability and/or restlessness
  • Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once found pleasurable
  • Fatigue and decreased energy
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
  • Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness or excessive sleeping
  • Overeating or appetite loss
  • Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
  • Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps or digestive problems that do not get better, even with treatment

Medical Treatment

• Consulting a physician is vital when dealing with geriatric depression. The doctor will often prescribe an anti-depressant. Several types are available, and it may take time to determine the optimum drug and dosage; it can take eight to ten weeks for the full effect of the anti-depressants to be felt by the patient. These medications can have serious side effects, so it's important to take them only when under the care of a physician.
  The doctor may also suggest therapy. No one is too old to benefit from therapy, and most studies suggest that anti-depressants work best when combined with traditional talk therapy. A qualified therapist can help the patient deal with depression and discover ways to cope with the many challenges of aging.

Other Therapies

• Many people find it beneficial to explore alternative therapies. Massage therapy helps patients feel better long after the massage is over: human touch is known for its healing powers, and the elderly person may have fewer opportunities for touch in her daily life than she did when she was younger. Some people swear by aromatherapy, believing that various essential oils, such as bergomot, rose and neroli, can help alleviate the symptoms of depression. Finally, many people find relief in feeding their spirit: studies have proven a link between attendance at religious services and a higher rate of happiness.

Test for Geriatric Depression

• If you feel that you or a loved one is experiencing geriatric depression, you may be interested in the Geriatric Depression Scale, developed specifically to test for depression among the elderly. The test is not a replacement for seeking medical help, but it can help you assess your situation and get ready to take the next step, if needed. See the Resources section for the link, provided by the Hartford Institute for Geriatric Nursing.