Growing older can be a rewarding phase in life, but it also presents mental health challenges like depression, which the COVID-19 pandemic has only intensified. If you’re concerned about an older relative feeling down, there are several helpful approaches, such as music therapy, encouraging social activities, and connecting them with a counselor.

The first step is acknowledging there’s an issue, which can be tricky since depression in seniors often flies under the radar. This guide covers what you need to know about depression in older adults.

Geriatric depression refers to a mental and emotional issue affecting seniors, and it’s not just a normal part of aging. Many seniors might experience subsyndromal depression, a milder form that doesn’t always match up with major depression symptoms but can progress if ignored. Such depression can lower the quality of life and even heighten the risk of suicide among older adults.

There isn’t a single cause of depression at any age. Generally, it stems from a mix of genetic, biological, social, and psychological factors. Common risk factors include low amounts of certain brain chemicals, a family history of depression, and traumatic experiences.

Specific to seniors, risk factors might include the shift from work to retirement, confronting mortality, increased isolation, and reduced mobility. Health declines, the loss of loved ones, and chronic illnesses can also increase depression risk. Several medical conditions linked to seniors, like stroke, cancer, diabetes, and Parkinson’s, can either directly or indirectly trigger depression. Vitamin deficiencies, thyroid issues, dementia, and multiple sclerosis also show connections to depression.

Various medications can contribute to or worsen depression, including certain blood pressure medicines, beta-blockers, tranquilizers, sleeping pills, and cholesterol drugs.

While depression symptoms are similar across ages, they might be harder to spot in older adults as family members might see them as just aging signs. Signs to watch for include:

Older adults can take steps themselves or with help from family to manage depression. Engaging in new activities, staying adaptable, and keeping socially and physically active are vital. Feeling connected to others and the community is crucial at any age.

However, depression can make even small tasks feel overwhelming. If a senior loved one is facing depression, take gradual steps—invite them for a short daily walk or encourage participation in church or volunteering activities. Isolation only worsens depression.

A lack of purpose can also trigger or worsen depression. It’s important for seniors to understand that their life’s purpose, while different, still exists.

Professional treatment for depression is just as effective for seniors as it is for younger people, though treatment plans should reflect their current life stage. Addressing depression’s root cause is crucial, especially for older adults. Seniors might not always do well with antidepressants, so doctors might focus on therapy and healthy lifestyle changes as potentially effective options without medication side effects. Therapy helps older adults manage life changes and challenging emotions, while also developing new coping strategies.

There are numerous support groups available for those dealing with illness, depression, or grief. These groups foster relationships and provide a space to share experiences, encouragement, and advice.