|
|
Depression in the elderlyMost people realize the seriousness of depression and the need to seek out appropriate emotional support. When young people are facing difficult challenges, they are encouraged to talk to their parents or some other trusted adult. When adults face problems such as divorce, job loss, or a serious life change such as the loss of a family farm, family and friends usually encourage them to "find someone to talk to." However, when it comes to the elderly population (usually defined by our society as being 65 years of age or older), there is a mistaken belief that depression is an expected part of growing older and nothing can be done. As with any age group, older people also face many potential losses: the death of friends, neighbors and family; the loss of mobility and levels of independence; changes due to retirement, finances or being the caregiver to an ill spouse. All of these factors make grieving and dealing with loss a natural part of aging, and do result in sadness and even short-term depression. But when the sadness and signs of depression remain for longer than normal this may indicate something more serious. Clinical depression is an illness involving a change in brain chemistry that is often unrecognized in the elderly, yet can be effectively treated. Some estimates say more than 80 percent of the elderly respond well or completely to treatment. Not only does treatment improve mood and outlook, but it also reduces adverse physical symptoms and has been correlated with prolonging life. For example some studies show that older depressed people with high blood pressure are almost three times as likely to suffer a stroke as older nondepressed people with the same condition. Other studies reveal that patients who are depressed immediately after a heart attack are 3.5 times more likely to die than patients who are not depressed. Even among patients with dementia, effective treatment for depression often reduces some of the symptoms indicated above. Therefore, it is important to recognize and treat depression regardless of a person's age in order to maximize the quality of his/her life. Contributed by Ken Loos, MS, LMLP, LCP Consultation and Education Department. Mail questions to: High Plains Mental Health Center, PLAIN SENSE, Consultation and Education Department, 208 East 7th, Hays, KS 67601; or visit www.highplainsmentalhealth.com. Date: 10/15/07
Copyright/Privacy
Copyright 1995-2012. High Plains Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved. Any republishing of these pages, including electronic reproduction of the editorial archives or classified advertising, is strictly prohibited. If you have questions or comments you can reach us at High Plains Journal 1500 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd., P.O. Box 760, Dodge City, KS 67801 or call 1-800-452-7171. Email: webmaster@hpj.com |
|
