Depression can affect anyone regardless of age, but individuals aged 60 and up may be at higher risk. Statistics show that aging and depression can occur together more than before. This can seem rather unfair at a time in your life for resting and enjoying your hard work. Unfortunately, many late-life events, such as declining health, loss of loved ones, financial stress, and other changes can take a heavy toll on one’s emotional health as we age. This can give rise to many intrusive symptoms associated with depression.

While depression does not have to come along with aging, it is a health concern that affects more than six million Americans aged 60 and over. Depressive symptoms often occur with other health conditions and may last longer in older adults. Unfortunately, depression is often overlooked by health care providers, loved ones and even those experiencing depression themselves. The reason for this is thought to be that depression developed later in life often manifests in somatic and cognitive symptoms. This means that instead of experiencing the more traditional symptoms such as sadness and despair, older individuals report more body aches, memory loss, poor reasoning, and lack of concentration.

Factors that Increase Geriatric Depression Risk

Most expect that their “golden years” will be a less-stressful period, but unfortunately, this is not the case for everyone. Some physical and emotional risk factors for late-life depression include:

• Death of loved ones
• Health and physical conditions like cancer, dementia, diabetes, stroke and chronic pain
• Medication side effects
• Facing mortality and other fears
• Minimal or no social support network
• Social isolation
• Limited mobility
• Financial difficulties
• Empty nest syndrome
• Major life event such as retirement or moving to a nursing home
• Previous history of depression
• Family history of major depression
• Alcohol or substance abuse

The Symptoms to Look for

There are many myths when it comes to depression as well as misconceptions regarding what is the best treatment approach. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression. Depression is a highly treatable medical condition, especially if symptoms are identified early on. The earlier geriatric depression is recognized, the better. Some major red flags include:

• Sleep disturbances
• Crying spells
• Anhedonia or the inability to feel positive emotions
• Change in appetite and/or weight
• Concentration and decision-making problems
• Physical pains
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Withdrawal
• Self-Harm
• Lethargy or decreased energy levels
• Change in communication pattern
• Lack of self-care

It is important to be aware of all the symptoms as depression can look different for everyone. Misinformation and assumptions can delay getting the care you or your loved one needs.

Why Geriatric Depression is Often Overlooked

Although ways have yet to be discovered to avoid the onset of depression, various treatment options are available. Sadly, all too many depressed adults live with their symptoms and struggle unnecessarily. Geriatric depression is so often overlooked or ignored for so many reasons, including:

• the assumption that depression is a typical part of aging
• many older adults are isolated, which in itself can contribute to depression and allow symptoms to go unnoticed
• some symptoms of depressions are masked by physical complaints
• some seniors are reluctant to ask for help for many different reasons
• depression may be looked at as an emotional health issue that should be hidden and not talked about, even with those closest to you
• Depression is often misdiagnosed as another health condition
• lack of financial resources can delay seeking treatment
• Belief that help is unavailable or not knowing where to look for help

If any of this sounds familiar it may be time to reach out for help. It is never too late to treat depression. Therapy can help.

Treating Depression at Any Age

Everyone goes through the aging process, but depression is not an inevitable part of it. Depression is neither a sign of weakness nor a character flaw. Anyone can be affected, regardless of race, gender, background or experiences in life. It is not to be considered unavoidable, especially later in life. Depression is not just a temporary mood, but a real condition that requires professional treatment.

While there are events and challenges unique to older adults, such as retirement, multiple losses, declining health, and other curve balls life may throw at you that may lead to depression, it doesn’t have to be that way. There are steps you can take to get out of the rut and enjoy your golden years without depression.

Overcoming geriatric depression is more than possible. Many who have sought help are able to move forward. The sooner you start to make a change, the better.

If you are ready to address your symptoms of depression, reach out to Carolina Counseling Services – West Fayetteville Office – Fayetteville, NC to schedule an appointment. The right therapist can help you work through your depression. In time, the clouds will be lifted, and your days will be brighter. Call now to schedule your first appointment.