Recognizing Depression in the Elderly
Depression is a common emotional disorder. It affects all age groups and sexes. It occurs at all economic levels. It is not a normal part of aging. It presents in the form of sadness, unhappiness, feeling down, experiencing a “blue mood” and no will to live.
Based on its severity, depression may be mild, moderate or severe. Mild depression is a brief, temporary sadness that is a normal reaction to stress, frustration and disappointment. It does not interfere with one’s normal functioning or daily activities. Having an opportunity to speak with someone, share feelings or a change of environment usually resolves it.
Moderate depression lasts longer and will be more intense. It is caused by a loss or traumatic event(s). Persons become unable to perform daily activities, take care of personal hygiene, communicate with others and take care of finances. Assistance will be required to help them get through the day. A referral for behavioral care is necessary.
Severe depression is characterized by a loss of interest in what is happening in the outside world, behavioral changes, inability to cope with anything and impairment of motor function. Severe depression may be recurrent, chronic or caused by a biochemical imbalance. Professional treatment and sometimes inpatient hospitalization are necessary.
Depressed persons feel hopeless, helpless, empty inside, have low self-esteem, are not able to accomplish goals and think themselves unattractive, a failure and disappointment in life. They don’t smile or laugh and will cry for no reason. Crying doesn’t bring relief. They remain sad. Often, they cannot identify how they feel or recognize that their actions are not healthy. The person will resist help and have feelings of guilt, thinking, “I did (something) that causes me to feel this way.” Our approach should be one of letting them know that God forgives, they are loved and we will be with them.
Depression is treated based upon its cause. Some of the causes are hereditary (bipolar disorder); biochemical imbalances; drugs, and even side effects of prescribed medications; alcohol abuse; illnesses that cause disabilities, such as accidents, strokes and amputations; chronic pain; cancers; dementias; stress; short days of winter with less light; sensory losses such as loss of hearing and vision; and loss of independence.
Be aware as your loved ones experience these changes. We may think all is going well, but internally they are struggling each time they get an unfavorable report from a doctor or therapist. Depressed persons may also be at risk of suicide. Look for signs of suicide (isolation, preoccupied with death, having a plan) and statements like, “There’s nothing to live for.” Listen, ask questions and seek professional help for them.
The support of family members and friends is needed in all phases of depression. The affected person may appear to not be responding to your presence. However, continue encouraging and assisting, for it helps their recovery. Once they began recovering, some will share memories of you being there or the things you did for them (accompanying them to doctor, bringing lunch or just your “ministry of presence,” you just being there for them).
Rev. Jiles Taylor-George, RN, BSN, MSN is a native of Tallahatchie County. She is a Certified Family Caregiver Support Group Facilitator.
