Depression Is Not A Normal Part Of Aging!

Depression isn’t just having “the blues” or feeling low when grieving the loss of a loved one. It’s a medical condition which is treatable, just like any other condition, such as diabetes, hypertension, etc. 
  • Depression in the Elderly
Depression is a common problem among the elderly, but isn’t a normal part of aging. There are many factors that contribute to this mental health condition in older adults, like declining health, death of a spouse, transitioning from work into retirement, etc.  All these life changes which happen as you get older may cause feelings of uneasiness, sadness, and stress. Many seniors regain their emotional balance after a period of adjustment, but others don’t and gradually fall into depression. 
  • Recognizing the Symptoms of Depression in seniors
Some of the most common symptoms of depression in the elderly are:
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and helplessness
  • Feelings of hopelessness and pessimism
  • Irritability and restlessness
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
  • Sleep problems (Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, excessive sleeping, etc)
  • Overeating or loss of appetite
  • Loss of interest in activities/hobbies once pleasurable
  • Fatigue and decreased energy levels
  • Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not get better, even with treatment
If you have an aging family member living with you, always keep a check on their mental health. If they are living independently, you can consider hiring a caregiver to check in on them and help them with day-to-day chores, like grocery shopping, meal preparation, light housekeeping, etc. At Helping Hand Nursing Services, we have a team of well-trained caregivers to provide seniors with the right level of care and support according to their needs. To learn more about us or our home health services in Lakeland, Florida, feel free to talk to us @ (863) 616-1888!

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