It was hard to fall asleep and I did not want to wake up for school.
Everything lacked meaning because I felt worthless.
I did not want to see friends and when I did, it didnt go beyond the pleasantries.
D-Keine / E+ / Getty
Even doing the most basic activity like showering was painful.
The first signs you may notice could bephysical ones.
Are they sleeping and eating properly?
How is their body looking?
Do they seem more tired than usual?
Cognitive Signs
Hughes explains that depression symptoms in older adults can sometimes present as cognitive issues.
The new onset of diminished ability to think, concentrate or indecisiveness may be reflective of depression.
Behavioral Signs
There can be behavioral manifestations of depression.
Hughes suggests noticing how the person is taking care of themselves.
For instance, does theirliving space look significantly more messythan usual?
Are they struggling with hygiene like showering or brushing their teeth?
These behavioral changes can sometime be signs of depression in older adults.
In cases of depression, speech and movements can also be impacted.
Are they speaking and moving much slower than normal?
Bouchard shares thatirritabilityor unexplained restlessness may be evident.
It could potentially be a sign of depression if they have trouble sitting still or are constantly fidgeting.
Sociallyisolating themselvesand not engaging with their friends and family meaningfully may also indicate depression.
[A sign to watch for is] a sense of sadness or hopelessness that is pervasive.
Common Causes of Depression Among Older Adults
There isnt a singlecause of depression.
However, there are risk factors that can increase its likelihood.
Genetics play a role; people who have family members with depression are more likely to experience it.
Having a medical condition such as cancer can negatively impact mental well-being.
Physical limitations increase with age and impair the ability to perform pleasurable activities.
Lastly, aging adults generally spend less time with other people as work and parenting duties diminish.
A lack of social connections can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.
There is evidence that the risk of suicide is increased in older men.
Cultural Factors
People fromdifferent culturesexpress their thoughts and feelings related to depression differently.
Its important to remain patient and understanding throughout the process, as recovery takes time.
Family members should watch for worsening symptoms, includingsuicidal thoughts, and seek professional help when needed.
Loving support and connection can greatly help the older adult in managing and overcoming depression, says Bouchard.
Depressive disorder (depression).
Published 2023.https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
National Institute on Aging.
Depression and older adults.
National Institute on Aging.
Published July 7, 2021.https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/mental-and-emotional-health/depression-and-older-adults
