Knowing the Signs of Senior Depression Can Help You Save Your Loved One’s Life
If you are taking care of an elderly loved one, you should know that depression is quite common in the elderly. There are many physical, emotional, and mental changes that happen in a senior’s life. These can all contribute to their depression. When it comes to elderly care, It is important to be able to recognize the signs of senior depression, so you can help to save their life. It is also important to note, before going more into the signs of senior depression, that everyone has bad days every now and again. Those days aren’t necessarily signs of depression. However, if you notice one or more of the following, they may be depressed.
Ongoing Anxiety or Sadness
Elderly Care Hudsonville, MI: Signs of Senior Depression
Do you notice that your loved one is anxious and sad all the time? Do they have anxiety attacks? Are they crying a lot? If so, this may signify the need to see a doctor. They might be feeling depressed.
Lack of Energy or Extreme Tiredness
Is your loved one constantly tired or sitting around doing nothing? Do they say they are worn out or tired all the time? Do you find they are sleeping much more than usual? If so, this could be one sign that they are depressed. It is certainly something you should talk to their doctor about.
Loss of Pleasure in Doing Things
Did your elderly loved one used to enjoy hanging out with their friends, but now they don’t? Did they take part in community events, but recently stopped doing that? This could be just because they are tired out. However, it could also mean they lost their interest in doing things because they are depressed.
Eating Too Much or Not Enough
Depression can go both ways when it comes to eating. Some people will eat too much and others won’t eat enough. If you have noticed appetite changes in your elderly loved one, keep an eye on them. If they start to gain a lot of weight or lose a lot of weight quickly, this could be a sign of depression.
Constant Pain
Is your elderly loved one experiencing constant pain? Have they had tests done and there doesn’t seem to be a reason for the pain? If so, you may find they are depressed. This is something you can talk to their doctor about.
Feeling Helpless
Feeling helpless is another sign that your elderly loved one might be depressed. If they are feeling this way, you should make sure to get them the help they need immediately.
These are some of the most common signs of senior depression. If your elderly loved one is depressed, it might help to hire a home care provider to assist in taking care of them and keeping an eye on them. The home care provider can be there when you can’t be. They can keep your loved one from getting lonely, as well.
If you or someone you know needs help with Elderly Care in Hudsonville MI, contact Gauthier Family Home Care. We provide quality and affordable homecare services in our community. Call us at (616) 258-2300 for more information.
Source
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/depression-and-older-adults
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/elderly
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