Depression on Older People

Depression with Age

                Since all of us are going to the stage of getting old, why not take a look at what drepression is for the old adults. Older Adults or older people may go through life changes or challenges or cycles which could trigger depression. Some more likely to be depressed than others. A situation may come up that can cause sadness and grief and some may recover and some may go through depression. If left untreated, depression could last for years and could lead to suicides.

Causes of Depression-does not have a single cause but a mixture or combination of things.

1. Loosing a spouse or loved one, or events in the past or current situation.
2. If one lived alone and no social support or friends.
3. Health problems, or the prescriptiobn medicine taken can be most likely to cause chemical affecting and leading to depression. Those who suffered heart attacks, stroke, broken hip, or chronic pain, and alcohol drinkers.
4. Levels of certain chemicals in the brain known as NEUROTRANSMITTERS.
5. Genes-if it runs in the family one is most likely to suffer depression.
6. Hormonal changes-women tend to undergo depression more because of the hormonal cycle they go through at different stages of their lives.
7. If one suffer trauma or grief, physical/emotional abuse whether early on in life or recently.
8. Stressful event as divorce or caring for a sick relative. Or even positive events such as marriage or a new job.

What to do:

1. Be aware of the changes as you age and keep a healthy diet and attitude.
2. Be active, physical activities such as walking or exercise can do wonders.
3. Stay in touch with friends, family and community. Do mental activities such as puzzles, word games, strategy games, cards, etc.
4. Nothing can beat prevention: seek professional help. Your Doctor will conduct tests to determine your condition.

If you think you are suffering from depression but you want to be certain of your condition there are sites on the internet that offers free tests online:

discoveryhealth.com, depressedtest.com, lessons4living.com –just to name a few.

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