What To Do For An Elderly Depressed Individual?
Treatment for depression in someone who is elderly is pretty much the same as the treatment plan for anyone else diagnosed with depression. The treatment plan is devised after a medical doctor specializing in mental illness has evaluated the individual and possibly has either done the physical exam or ordered a physical exam if necessary.
Once the signs and symptoms of depression are detected in an elderly individual an evaluation and treatment plan can begin. Unfortunately it is assumed by many that the elderly have much to be depressed about and that it is normal for them to be depressed. This simply is not true, no one, no matter the age deserves to live in the state of depression. Depression is not something that a person does to themselves, nor is saying or doing things as a result of your depression a crime. Individuals who are depressed, no matter how old they are should be given the same opportunity to be comforted and treated for their depression. Treatment can alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness which elderly individuals are more prone to feeling when others chose to get involved and make a difference in the life of someone who is advanced in age.
Treatment for depression in someone who is elderly is pretty much the same as the treatment plan for anyone else diagnosed with depression. The treatment plan is devised after a medical doctor specializing in mental illness has evaluated the individual and possibly has either done the physical exam or ordered a physical exam if necessary. Treatment will consist of therapy, medication or both depending on the symptoms and severity of the depression. Social interventions can assist in lessening the fears associated with isolation and the feelings of loneliness. A support system is vital and often missing in those of advanced age. Therapy and other medical support interventions as needed to treat chronic illness associated with the depression, and antidepressant drug therapy can all be a part of the treatment plan.
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Lifestyle changes such as a move to a nursing home, retirement home or other senior living arrangement, the death of a spouse, a chronic illness or accident that drastically changes mobility are all situations and events that caregivers are usually a part of and can be alerted to the potential risk for depression in the patient. When caregivers are aware of the potential, they can support the elderly person and any family members that may also be part of the support group.
Depression Treatment
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Social Interventions:
Lonliness is a major contributing factor for the elderly who are depressed. Communities often have senior centers that offer activities, and a chance for seniors to be with other seniors in social interactions that can decrease the feelings of isolation and loneliness. Communities also offer organizations like bridge clubs or gardening clubs that caregivers can suggest to the elderly to join. Many retirement communities address this issue with scheduled outings like concerts, golf trips, shopping trips etc. to help care for the social needs of the elderly.
Support System:
The depressed elderly individual needs a support system in place to address the various needs both physical and emotional including health care (getting to and from appt., included), daily living tasks like meals, laundry, shopping, housework, lawn care, pet care etc., that can be challenging and upsetting to someone who is faced with limited mobility or decreased physical function. As we age the family support often disappears as children become adults and move away, or adult friends and spouses die it can be difficult for an elderly person to replace these individuals in their life and often times they do not seek other human contact when loss occurs. The community may offer support services like meals on wheels, social activities, counseling etc., but often it is left up to the elderly to seek out these services and when they are depressed it is not likely that they will do this. In cases where depression is present it is up to caring individuals, physicians or other healthcare staff to recognize the need and to suggest support systems for the individual who is depressed.
Therapy and Medical Support:
The elderly person’s physician can evaluate and suggest proper psychological care, appropriate therapy, and medication as needed. Alternative therapy such as massage therapy can also be beneficial. Current Facts About Elderly Depression
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