Depression in the Elderly
What can be done to prevent the condition?
Depression may not be preventable. However, these steps may be helpful in preventing it:
avoiding alcohol and illegal drugs
avoiding cigarette smoking
getting prompt treatment for other psychiatric disorders
seeking effective treatment for chronic diseases
talking with a counselor after experiencing a major trauma
Depression can lead to suicide. It is important to recognize and treat the condition early. Individuals should be encouraged to talk to someone if they are concerned about depression. There are many people to whom
they can talk, including:
a clergy member
a counselor at a senior center
a family doctor
a professional at a mental health center
a psychologist
a trusted family member
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
With good treatment, many people recover from depression. Some people experience it only once in their lives. Others have periodic bouts of depression.
If depression is not effectively treated, a person can experience serious difficulties in every area of life. Depression often hurts relationships. It also impairs work and volunteer participation. In some cases, it leads to suicide.
People with depression are at higher risk for many chronic diseases and conditions, including:
coronary artery disease
heart attack
personality disorders
stroke
Seniors who are depressed are more likely to report poor health status and low quality of life. They are also more likely to die from health problems, such as heart attack.
What are the risks to others?
Depression is not contagious.
|
Previous section
