Definition
Depression is a medical illness characterized by persistent sadness, discouragement, and loss of self-worth. These feelings are accompanied by reduced energy and concentration, sleep problems (insomnia), decreased appetite and weight loss. In the elderly, depression is also frequently characterized by excessive concerns about bodily aches and pains.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Causes include the loss of a spouse or close friends, chronic pain and illness, difficulty with mobility, frustration with memory loss, difficulty adapting to changing circumstances such as moving from a home to a retirement facility, or changes within the family.
Depression can also be a sign of a medical problem. It may be complicated by brain disorders associated with the aging process such as Alzheimer's disease.
Depression in the elderly is a widespread problem that is often not diagnosed and frequently under treated. Many older individuals will not admit to signs and symptoms of depression for fear of being seen as weak or crazy.
Symptoms:
* depressed or irritable mood * feelings of worthlessness or sadness *temper, agitation * loss of interest/pleasure in daily activities *memory loss *difficulty concentrating *difficulty sleeping *multiple awakenings through the night *thoughts about suicide *fatigue (tiredness or weariness) *excessive irresponsible behavior *abnormal thoughts, excessive or inappropriate guilt
If these symptoms are present every day for more than 2 weeks, then person is depressed
* a physical examination * psychological evaluation
* blood tests: CBC/blood differential, thyroid function tests, liver or kidney function tests * a variety of other tests may be needed
Treatment:
Sometimes depression can be alleviated by social interventions to help with isolation or loneliness such as group outings, volunteer work or regular visits from concerned people.
Treatment of underlying medical conditions or the discontinuation of certain medications may alleviate symptoms.
Antidepressant drug therapy has been shown to increase quality of life in depressed elderly patients. These medications are carefully monitored for side effects, and doses are usually lower and increased more slowly than in younger adults.
Neuroleptic medications may help treat agitation in some individuals. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be indicated in the severely depressed if other measures are unsuccessful.
Expectations (prognosis):
If detected, depression may respond to medical treatment. Undetected, it may lead to complications. The outcome is usually worse for those who have limited access to social services, or to family or friends who can help promote an interest in activities.
Complications:
Alzheimer's disease or other forms of may complicate dementia. It may also complicate other medical conditions in the elderly. Untreated depression in the elderly is associated with a high rate of suicide.
Prevention:
Prevention is related to the contributing factors. Social supports that help deal with losses, mobility changes, and so on can be helpful. In many cases, there is no effective prevention.
Solution:
* Always be happy * Think positive * Indulge in social services and * Try your best to share your HAPPINESS.
... Take Care. Have a nice time Bye.
