Question

Module 05 Assignment - Depression in the Elderly

Depression in later life is usually diagnosed on the basis of two clusters of symptoms: feelings and physical changes. In a 3-page paper, written in APA format using proper spelling/grammar, research the topic of depression in the elderly and address the following:

1. How would one know if an elderly relative had clinical depression or was sad because of specific life changes and losses?
2. 
   
3. What are the consequences of depression in the elderly?
4. 
   
5. Which behaviors would indicate a person going through depression needs therapy?
6. 
   
7. What kind of therapy would a professional recommend and why?

Answer 1

1) Depression can physically change a which leads to emotional imbalance in person's brain, hastening an aging effect that might leave them more susceptible to illnesses associated with old age.An older adults have more medical conditions, such as heart disease, stroke, or cancer, which may cause depressive symptoms, Or they may be taking medications with side effects that contribute to depression.

While depression and sadness might seem to go hand and hand, many depressed seniors claim not to feel sad at all. They may complain, instead, of low motivation, a lack of energy, or physical problems. In fact, physical complaints, such as arthritis pain or worsening headaches, are often the predominant symptom of depression in the elderly.

Depression is a true and treatable medical condition, not a normal part of aging. However older adults are at an increased risk for experiencing depression.In fact, physical complaints, such as arthritis pain or worsening headaches, are often the predominant symptom of depression in the elderly, External causes, including an environment that is too busy or loud, and a change in routine. Which affect individual with Psychological causes such as loneliness, boredom, , depression, and delusions majorly depression, such as feelings of low self-esteem and confidence, tearfulness and appetite, concentration and memory problems.

As we age, we experience many losses. Loss is painful—whether it’s a loss of independence, mobility, health, your long-time career, or someone you love. Thses are relatively physical and external and psychological aspects affects on older adults particularly to have clinical depression .

2)consequences of depression in the elderly:

Depression is the mental health disorder effects on body changes associated with aging may increase a person's risk of experiencing depression. Pathological changes is mainly lower concentrations of folate in the blood and nervous system may contribute to depression, mental impairment, and dementia.

older adults with depression have more difficulties with memory loss and reaction time during everyday activities compared with younger adults with depression

Individual with depression may have trouble maintaining a normal work schedule or fulfilling social obligations. Thsese is because of inability to concentrate, memory problems, and difficulty making decisions.

And aslo overwhelming sadness, grief, and a sense of guilt. It may be described as a feeling of emptiness or hopelessness leads to depression.

irritability, anger, and loss of interest in things that used to bring pleasure, including sex, Frequent episodes of crying may be a symptom of depression

Depression can cause headaches, chronic body aches, and pain that may not respond to medication. It’s also sometimes an effect of certain neurological diseases, such as epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis.

Some people who are depressed may turn to alcohol or drugs, which may increase instances of reckless or abusive behavior

People experiencing depression may also find themselves preoccupied with thoughts of death or hurting themselves.

3)Older adults tend to complain more about the physical rather than the emotional signs and symptoms of depression like fatigue, unexplained aches and pains, and memory problems. They may also neglect their personal appearance and stop taking critical medications for their health.

Uncontrollable sadness, anger, or hopelessness may be signs of a mental health issue that can improve with treatment. If you’re eating or sleeping more or less than usual, withdrawing from family and friends, or just feeling “off,” talk to someone before serious problems develop that impact your quality of life. If these feelings escalate to the point that you question whether life is worth living or you have thoughts of death or Suicide, reach out for help right away.

Effective treatment for depression often includes consulting a therapist who can provide you tools to treat depression from a variety of angles and motivate you to take the action necessary. Therapy can also offer you the skills and insight to prevent depression from coming back.

Psychotherapy’ is a fancy way of saying you are treating a mental illness without the use of medication. Psychotherapy has proven to have similar effectiveness to antidepressants. For older adults with mild forms of depression, psychotherapy is recommended as the first form of treatment.

antidepressants come with a long list of potential risks. Psychotherapy, on the other hand, allows you to develop life-long skills to manage your depression.

Cognitive behavioral therapy goal is designed to give you the skills to change your irrational emotional responses by changing the way you think and behave.

Problem solving therapy provides you with the ability to learn how to improve your coping skills with minor and major stressors in life.

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