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.
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.
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
09/02/2010 |
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