Elderly Care in Dacula GA
Depression in the elderly is more common than you think, affecting the lives of approximately 6 million adults over the age of 65. Although many elders suffer from this health condition, only about 10 percent get the treatment they need. The reason being that each person has different symptoms, some of which may be mistaken for signs of aging.
Depression in seniors is often caused by other medical conditions and disabilities and lasts longer than depression in younger adults. If the elder does not receive the proper treatment, they are at a greater risk of cardiac diseases and a higher mortality rate from other illnesses. This can be a difficult condition to diagnose, but the following symptoms will give you an idea as to whether or not you should contact the elder’s doctor.
Symptoms
- Unusual aches and pains
- Feelings of despair or sadness
- Shows no interest in socializing or hobbies
- Sleep problems, such as sleeping too much or trouble falling asleep
- Loss of motivation and energy
- Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss
- Feeling hopeless or helpless
- Loss of self-worth
- Moves and speaks slower
- Increased use of drugs or alcohol
- Constantly thinking about death or considering suicide
- Problems with memory
- Not taking care of their personal appearance or hygiene
Medical Conditions that Cause Depression
Some medical conditions could cause depression in the senior to develop, especially if it causes pain or results in a disability. These conditions include:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Parkinson’s disease
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Thyroid disorders
- Vitamin B12 deficiency
- Multiple sclerosis
- Lupus
- Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia
Medical conditions are not the only thing that can cause depression in the elderly. Some medications may also cause this mental illness to occur, like:
- Sleeping pills
- Blood pressure medication
- Beta-blockers
- Tranquilizers
- Medication for Parkinson’s disease
- Calcium-channel blockers
- Ulcer medication
- Heart medications that contain reserpine
- Arthritis medications and certain painkillers
- Estrogens
- Steroids
- Medication for high cholesterol
Prevention
With the help of family members or caregivers, your elderly loved one can prevent depression from developing with the following ideas:
- Exercise
- Get plenty of rest at night
- Eat the right foods
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and other stimulants
- Get therapy in order to talk about the symptoms
- Schedule regular social activities
- Encourage the elder to follow the treatment plan that was put together by the elder’s doctor
Depression can cause the happy person you once knew to become moody, irritable, and frequently sad. Knowing this information will help your loved one get the care and help they need.
The staff at Home Care Matters is available to talk with you and your family about all of your needs. Home Care Matters is a home care agency providing quality and affordable elderly care in Dacula, GA and the surrounding areas. Call (678) 828-2195 for more information.
Source: http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-elderly#1
Valerie has the unique experience with home care as she has experienced it from both ends of the spectrum, as a caregiver and as needing care herself as a cancer survivor. Valerie says, “Taking care of someone you love is a physically, mentally and demanding labor of love.Taking care of my mom was the hardest thing I have ever done. It has given me an insight and perspective not many people understand unless you are doing it or have done it.I loved taking care of my mom.I love helping others take care of their love ones too.And now that I’ve been sick, it’s given me a whole new level of empathy and understanding for those who are sick and need help.”
Valerie’s schedule varies daily, but she loves visiting with our clients, families, caregivers, our network partners and being in the office.Says Valerie, “Every day is different, but I wake up excited about what we do, inspired by our team, clients and caregivers.I strive to be a resource to the community.I love my team and I love what we do every day. I like to think my mom would be proud.”
You can reach Valerie by email (Valerie@homecarematters.com) or in our office (770.965.4004).
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