Depression may affect people at any age, but it is common among the elderly. If your senior friends or family members live alone, it’s important that you know how to identify the signs of depression so that you can help them experience relief. Below, home health care professionals discuss frequently asked questions about geriatric depression and what you can do about it. 

4 FAQs About Senior Depression

Why do the elderly experience depression?

Older adults typically have a higher risk of depression due to disability or medical issues, including limited mobility, heart disease, or cancer. Seniors may also be more susceptible to depression when they live alone, have infrequent social interaction, and do not get quality sleep. 

What are the warning signs?

Common signs of depression include feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness that do not go away, loss of interest in activities they normally enjoy, and lower energy levels. Additionally, you may notice decreased appetite, insomnia, oversleeping, difficulty concentrating, weight fluctuations, and irritability. 

Is it possible to prevent it?

There are several ways to prevent your elderly friends and family from experiencing depression. Sticking with a routine and regular sleep schedule will make the days feel more fulfilling and decrease anxiety. Helping them maintain an active social life and scheduling visits with loved ones will reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. 

Does home health care reduce the symptoms?

Home health care may manage the symptoms of depression by assisting your elderly loved ones with their activities of daily living. When your senior friends and family have the ability to age in place and feel more in control of their lives, they’ll be less likely to feel depressed.

Keep your loved ones in high spirits as they age with home health care from Nurse Next Door Arlington South. They offer in-home senior care to clients throughout Mansfield, Arlington, Pantego, Irving, Downtown, Mesquite, and Dalworthington Gardens, TX. Call (817) 608-7322 to set up a schedule for caregiver services, and visit the website to learn more about how they can provide companionship to your aging friends and family members.