Question

Discuss the techniques and assessment of depression in the older adult.

Answer 1

Ans

People with depressive disorders have persistently depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, often accompanied by changes in thinking, behaviour and/or physical health. Having depression is also a significant risk factor for suicidal thoughts or actions.

The typical symptoms of major depression in a young person include:

Emotional changes:

• Feelings of unhappiness, or moodiness and irritability, and sometimes emptiness or numbness
• Tearfulness or frequent crying
• Feelings of worthlessness and guilt, sadness and/or hopelessness
• Losing interest and pleasure in activities that was once enjoyed
• Tiredness, lack of energy and motivation
• Feeling worried or tense

Cognitive changes:

• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
• Being self-critical and self-blaming
• Negative body image and low self esteem
• Having dark and gloomy thoughts, including thoughts of death or suicide

Behavioral changes:

• Poor attention to personal hygiene and appearance
• Decreased participation with peers and normally enjoyed activities

• Self harm or deteriorated self-care

• Avoidance of family interactions and activities
• More withdrawn behaviour, including clearly more time spent alone

Physical changes:

• Loss of appetite and weight (but sometimes people 'comfort eat' and put on weight)
• Either difficulty sleeping, or over-sleeping and staying in bed most of the day
• Lowered libido
• Restlessness and agitation, or being slowed down
• Unexplained aches and pains