Depression and Aging

Depression in older people is a common problem.  As people age, they undergo many life changes.  For some people, dealing with a serious illness or death in the family can bring on depression. Other causes of depression can be diminished physical or mental abilities. 

Causes of Later-Life Depression

Older adults become depressed due to a variety of factors, including:

• Physical illnesses, such as Parkinson's disease, strokes, heart disease and Alzheimer's disease
• Financial hardship
• Grieving the loss of loved ones
• Difficulty with everyday tasks, such as walking and climbing stairs
• Sudden life changes, like retirement
• History of depression in the family
• Medications, such as high blood pressure drugs

Symptoms

Here are some of the most common symptoms of later-life depression:

• Crying frequently
• Feeling hopeless and unworthy
• Extreme moodiness
• Withdrawal from social life or leisure-time activities once enjoyed
• Weight gain or loss
• Overtired and fatigued
• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much

If you or someone you love is depressed, don't be afraid or ashamed to ask for help. Without assistance from a medical professional, the depression may not go away and can even get worse.

When you need someone to talk to, turn to Belmont Behavioral Health at 1-800-220-HELP or (215) 877-2000.