Depression: A natural part of the ageing process?

Depression is often thought to go hand in hand with getting older but this is not the case. Older adults may go through significant life changes - such as losing a spouse, having a chronic health condition or being institutionalised - that may trigger depression. However, those who are single, don’t have support, have a medical problem or drink too much alcohol are more susceptible

The problem is that depression is often missed in older adults and, if untreated, can last for many years. It can cause or aggravate physical and mental health with the highest suicide rate noted in men over the age of 75.

Depression can be overlooked in the older population because:

• People think it is part of ageing
• The symptoms of depression can be similar to those of other diseases
• Depression can be caused by certain medications
• Older adults may be reluctant to seek help
• The cost of medical care is prohibitive

Depression in the older person is treated the same way as for any age group ie with medication and/or counseling.Treatment usually works and it may also help other medical problems that older adults have.

Older members of your workforce may benefit from increased awareness of aging and its impact on the mind and body. They may also be interested in learning positive ways to deal with stress, how to slow down or even how to prevent problems associated with aging. Speak to the good measures team if you are interested in providing education of this nature to your workforce.