Everyone experiences sadness at times. But depression is something more. Depression is extreme
sadness or despair that lasts more than days. It interferes with the activities of daily life and can
cause physical symptoms such as pain, weight loss or gain, sleeping pattern disruptions, or lack
of energy. People with depression may also experience an inability to concentrate, feelings of
worthlessness or excessive guilt, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. Depression is the
most common mental disorder. Fortunately, depression is treatable. A combination of therapy
and antidepressant medication can help ensure recovery.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), depression symptoms are difficult
to recognize in the elderly because they are similar to symptoms of other illnesses common to
older adults. For example, confusion and isolation are symptoms of depression but are also
symptoms of dementia. A physical examination will help determine whether an older adult is
suffering from depression or a medical condition.
To further complicate matters, a chronic physical illness as well as the medication taken for the
illness—can bring on depression, according to NAMI.
Depression can become so severe that older adults—especially those with other medical
conditions cannot care for themselves. At Graceful Day, our caregivers understand the needs of
seniors who suffer from depression. We provide comprehensive caregiving services so they can
focus on getting treatment for this condition.
