If you know someone who's aging and struggling with depression, Juno Medical has some good guidance on how to help them.
Starting with the signs, here are some things to look for to determine whether depression may be a factor:
- loss of interest in activities that they would normally enjoy and inability to carry out daily activities, for at least two weeks
- loss of energy, change in appetite; different sleeping patterns; anxiety; reduced concentration; restlessness; feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness; and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
- depression among older people is often associated with physical conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes. Life events, such as losing a partner; and a reduced ability to do things that were possible when younger, may also contribute to depression.
As for helping, this infographic provides some guidance.
If you'd like to find out more, visit Juno Medical's site about depression in older adults.