Depression In The Elderly

Depression In Elderly Patients

Depression behavior in seniors is a common problem. Oldage does not mean that person will experience depression. Although the most of older adults enjoy their life, depression is still a serious problem. The risk of suicide is a serious concern among elderly patients with depression. Individuals age 65 and older account for 19% of all deaths by suicide!

The difficult life changes that many elderly individuals face, loneliness, illness or stressors such as the death of a spouse, can lead to depression. There are several signs and symptoms of depression in the elderly:

• Sadness
• Fatigue
• Loss of interest
• Guilt
• Social withdrawal and isolation
• Inability to make decisions
• Loss of appetite, weight loss
• Sleep disturbances
• Loss of self-worth
• Increased use of alcohol or other drugs
• Fixation on death; suicidal ideation or attempts

Depression in elderly patients tends to last longer and increases risk of suicide and death.

Treatment Of Depression In The Elderly

Currently, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the first choice for treatment of depression in elderly patients. The most prescribed SSRI is Sertraline. Other antidepressant medicines treating depression in the elderly include: fluoxetine, paroxetine and venlafaxine.

Those people who prefer not to take medicine psychotherapy could be very helpful. Studies have found that therapy works just as well as medication in relieving mild to moderate depression.

Therapy, support groups, and medication can all help relieve symptoms of depression in elderly patients. Depression treatment is just as effective for elderly adults as it is for younger people...