Depression

Definition
Sadness, inactivity, difficulty thinking and concentrating, loss of energy, frequent somatic complaints, decreased psychomotor activity, fatigue, agitation, social withdrawal, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, feelings of discouragement or hopelessness, or recurrent thoughts of despair, death or suicide.

Cause
Common especially in residents with chronic medical conditions and physical problems Many drugs commonly prescribed to the aged are associated with depression Single or widowed women have higher prevalence and seek treatment more than men. Post stroke depression is common

• Many aged have chronic depression
• Female gender
• Previous history of depression
• Family history of depressive disorder
• Chronic illness or pain
• Lack of social support network
• Substance abuse
• Prior suicide attempt

Caregiver Hot Tips
The most common mental health problem of late life often remains undiagnosed and under treated.

1. Older adults feel a tremendous sense of loss of their roles, health, people they loved, may have fear of dying



2. May be attributed to chronic illness and disability, dementia, chronic pain, preexisting depressive disorder, death of a spouse, relocation to an institution.
   
   • Identify stressors
   • Provide safety and security
   • Meet emotional needs of later life
   • Encourage a sense of belonging
   • Support the resident’s spirituality and faith
     
     
3. Residents need to feel they are in a supportive environment where they have sense of belonging. Encourage residents to talk to people who can do something to fix problems; to share feelings, voice unmet needs.




4. Use a sense of humor to reduce tension.