Most of us grapple with occasional bouts of depression. And for many all it takes is some time and/or a change in circumstances to get us back on track.
For many, depression in a chronic condition and seniors are at increased risk for it. Increasing health issues (according to the National Council on Aging, nearly 80 percent of older Americans have at least one chronic health condition), an inability to participate in life with the same vigor and the loss of a spouse can all trigger depression in older adults. Additionally, certain diseases, like diabetes, may predispose people to become depressed.
If you suspect someone you love is depressed, here are some things you can do to help them:
Help them seek treatment
The good news is that depression is a treatable condition and seniors, as a group, typically respond well to treatment. Help your loved one find a doctor they’ll be comfortable with and go with them to the appointment. If they resist, don’t get angry and demand they seek treatment. Engage them in conversation and discover why they are resisting help.
Get them moving
Exercise can improve depression – it has powerful mood-boosting effects. It can also improve other areas of one’s life, such as overall health, mobility, and an increased sense of well-being, which can help ease the symptoms of depression.
Ensure they’re eating healthfully
Numerous studies have shown a link between sugar and refined carbohydrates (white flour, white rice, pasta) to depression. These foods cause inflammation in the brain, which can cause depression. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry found brain inflammation was 30 percent higher in patients who were clinically depressed.
Help them get a good night’s sleep
According to the National Institutes of Health, almost half of all adults age 60 and older have insomnia, which can exacerbate depression. Avoiding alcohol and caffeine can help as can making the bedroom “sleep friendly” – dark, well ventilated and quiet. If the issue persists, there are many medications to treat insomnia. Check with your loved one’s doctor to see if there’s something that might work.
Encourage a positive attitude
If your loved one constantly expresses negative thoughts – “Getting old is for the birds!” or “I’m just going to get sicker and sicker,” these thoughts form neural pathways in the brain and eventually become true. Help you loved one “rewire” their brain by focusing on all they have to be grateful for and on positive thoughts.
Help them get connected
Isolation is a huge trigger for depression, so connecting to social activities and other seniors in the area can literally be lifesaving. Take them to a local senior center, or find an activity they enjoy and find a group that supports their passion. If they’re unable to get out due to a chronic medical condition, help them get connected online through Facebook and other social networks.
Give them a purpose for living
A study by MetLife showed that, regardless of age, gender, financial status or life stage, a majority of people assign the most importance in life to activities that have meaning, and this feeling increases with age. The meaning can be very small – from cleaning up trash around the neighborhood – to something more profound, like volunteering for a local charity. Give your loved one a purpose in life and they’ll be less prone to depression.
