Depression in Older Adults

Depression in Older Adults

by Tarah Doyle, M.A./CAGS School Psychologist

As they age, older adults face many life changes that may cause feelings of sadness and can be difficult to cope with. Challenging life situations may include bereavement of a spouse or loved one, loss of independence, and health/medical problems, which can lead to depression. Despite the challenges older adults face and temporary feelings of sadness they may experience, depression is not a normal part of aging. Persistent depression that significantly interferes with an older adult’s ability to function should not be ignored. Often times, older adults complain more about physical symptoms rather than emotional symptoms of depression, so the problem goes unrecognized. Depression in older adults is associated with poor health, a high mortality rate, and increased risk of suicide making diagnosis and treatment critical.

Common signs and symptoms of depression in older adults

  • Unexplained or aggravated aches and pains
  • Hopelessness
  • Helplessness
  • Anxiety and worries
  • Memory problems
  • Loss of feeling of pleasure
  • Slowed movement
  • Irritability
  • Lack of interest in personal care (skipping meals, forgetting medications, neglecting personal hygiene)

Causes of depression in older adults

Depression is a medical illness that can also be a sign of a medical problem. Older adults may experience depression in reaction to an illness, or an existing disease may even cause depression. In addition to depression caused by other illnesses, older adults may be taking medications in which depression is a common side affect. Other causes of depression in older adults include:

  • Changes within the family
  • Chronic pain and illness
  • Difficulty getting around
  • Frustration with memory loss
  • Loss of a spouse or close friend
  • Trouble adapting to a life change

Treatment options for depression in older adults

Therapy, support groups, and medication can all help relieve symptoms. However, health issues should always be considered in an older adult’s treatment plan.

Any medical issues complicating the depression must be addressed and resolved. For example, many older adults suffer from chronic pain. Pain that interferes with daily activities can prevent depression recovery, so it must be managed as part of the treatment plan.

Fortunately, the prognosis is good. Once diagnosed, 80 percent of clinically depressed older adults, including older persons, can be effectively treated.

The information in the article above was drawn from the following sources:

  • American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Washington, D.C. American Psychiatric Press, 2000.

  • Davies, P., Jaffee, J., Segal, J. and Smith, M. (2007). Depression in Older Adults and the Elderly: Recognizing the Signs and Getting Help. Retrieved June 22, 2009, from www.helpguide.org/mental/depression_elderly.htm.

  • Rogge, T.A. (2009). Depression in the Elderly. Retrieved June 22, 2009, from www.nlm.nih.gov/MEDLINEPLUS/ency/article/001521.htm.

General Resources on Aging and Wellness

Disclaimer: Material on the Project INTERFACE web site is intended as general information. It is not a recommendation for treatment, nor should it be considered medical or mental health advice. Project INTERFACE urges families to discuss all information and questions related to medical or mental health care with a health care professional.