How to Deal With Depression in the Elderly

As people age they start to deal with many different problems. Many elderly individuals look forward to, and enjoy, their retirement years. Others, however, fall into a deep depression upon retirement, as they mistakenly feel useless and out of place in society. Depression in the elderly is treated much the same as depression in any person, although the subject will need to be approached carefully.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Figure out the reason for the elderly person's depression. Possible causes include: relatives living too far away, not enough physical activity and not enough things to do during the day.

2. Set up a regular time to meet with your elderly friend or parent. You can visit them every couple of weekends, but be sure that you see them at regular intervals.

3. Help the elderly person find a pet. Cats and dogs can be excellent friends to anyone, especially the elderly. Be sure that the person is capable of properly caring for the animal.

4. Go outside with the person. Try and take walks in parks and around the neighborhood with them. Getting outside is an important way to deal with depression.

5. Look for regular senior activities around town. Many halls have bingo and game nights for seniors. It is important to have your elderly friend participate in these activities. They will have fun and also meet new friends.

6. Take the elderly person to see his doctor. If his depression is caused by something other than lifestyle factors, the doctor can prescribe medication for him.

7. Consider letting your elderly parents live with you. The elderly often become very depressed when they are unable to care for themselves and have to live in an assisted care home.

Tips & Warnings

• Encourage the individual to stay active. As people get older they tend to live more sedentary lifestyles, which can lead to depression.
• Depression in the elderly can usually be dealt with by helping them make several changes to their lifestyle, but don't rule out the possibility of medical treatment too.
• While exercise is an important way to deal with depression, the individual may not have the physical strength and conditioning to do some activities. Try low impact things like walking around town and swimming at the health club.
• Be sure that the individual is receiving proper medical care and attention if he is living in an assisted living home. Inadequate healthcare often will result in depression.
• Be sure the individual can properly care for herself. This is especially important if they are taking a medicine for their depression. Ensure that the doctor's dosage is followed exactly.

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