St. Anthony's Senior Living

5 Ways To Combat Depression In Seniors

Nicole McCulloch
Published March 24, 2020

An excerpt from https://www.seniorsmatter.com/ways-to-combat-depression-in-seniors/2493147

Older adults have an increased risk of developing depression, however, depression is not a normal part of aging. According to Harvard Health, causes of depression in older adults can include health problems such as “illness and disability, chronic or severe pain, cognitive decline, damage to your body image due to surgery or sickness” as well as loneliness and isolation. The CDC reports estimated rates of major depression in adults increases significantly for older people who require home healthcare.

Depression has also been linked to dementia. A study conducted by the University of California San Francisco’s Department of Psychiatry concluded that “Depressive symptoms in midlife or in late life are associated with an increased risk of developing dementia.” Harvard Health states that “About 17% of people with Alzheimer’s disease also have major depression, and the prevalence is even higher in people with other types of dementia.”

Depression is a mood disorder, while dementia is an “overall term for diseases and conditions characterized by a decline in memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking skills that affect a person’s ability to perform everyday activities” as defined by the Alzheimer’s Association, but their symptoms can be similar, making it difficult to distinguish between the two.

It’s no surprise then, that many of the ways to reduce the risk of developing dementia also apply to preventing depression. Below are actions seniors can take to help combat depression.

Regular Visits With Family And Friends

Stay social by keeping in touch with friends and family, inviting someone over for dinner, hosting a game night, joining a club, taking a class, volunteering, or visiting your local senior center.

Art Therapy

Art therapy allows us to express our feelings through creativity. A systematic literature review published in 2019 focused on the use of creative arts interventions including art, dance, drama, and music on depression and depressive symptoms of older adults. It found that the physical, intra-personal, cultural, cognitive, and social elements reduced depression and symptoms.

Meditation

Meditation practices may also improve mood and prevent depressive episodes. Harvard Health states that “A regular practice can help your brain better manage stress and anxiety that can trigger depression.”

Find A Sense Of Purpose

One investigation into those who were diagnosed with depression found that the “Participants were dealing with profound ruptures to what they were living for—their dreams for work, relationships, and a meaningful life.” It could be as simple as finding a new hobby or interest.

 

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