Depression in Aged Care
According to Beyond Blue, one in seven Australian adults face depression each year. As we get older, life changes can up the chances of depression. And for those already struggling, shifts in their surroundings can worsen it.
When it comes to our aging loved ones, picking a home care service can be a top-notch choice for their physical, emotional, and mental health. Sadly, older generations grew up when mental health wasn’t openly talked about. That means many seniors battle depression quietly, not asking for help.
Depression among the elderly isn't a monolithic experience; it manifests in various forms, each presenting unique challenges.
One prevalent type is Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. In older adults, MDD often intertwines with physical ailments, making it harder to diagnose. This overlap sometimes leads to its misinterpretation as a natural part of aging or as a consequence of medical conditions, such as chronic pain or heart disease.
Another common form is Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), previously known as dysthymia. PDD involves long-lasting, milder symptoms than MDD but can endure for years, impacting daily life and functioning. Its subtle nature often means it goes undiagnosed or untreated, affecting an individual's overall quality of life significantly.
Furthermore, seniors commonly experience depression secondary to other medical conditions, termed as "depression due to another medical condition." Chronic illnesses, such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, can trigger depressive symptoms due to the challenges and changes these conditions bring.
Grief and bereavement-related depression also affect the elderly profoundly, especially after the loss of a spouse or close peers. This type of depression can linger, affecting emotional and physical health.
Recognising and addressing these diverse forms of depression in the elderly is crucial for tailored and effective treatment, ensuring improved mental health and overall well-being in their later years.
Around 70% of seniors will need long-term care, and most prefer staying at home or in retirement communities over nursing homes. Moving can be super tough, especially for those dealing with memory diseases like Alzheimer’s. Around one in three seniors passes away due to Alzheimer’s or another dementia, and for someone with Alzheimer’s, a new and scary place can feel incredibly unsafe.
Even without dementia, moving to a nursing care facility can hit hard emotionally. Being away from loved ones and losing independence is distressing. Surveys show around 90% of seniors want to age in their homes.
While kids might think a nursing home is the best call, a home care service might actually be better.
Spotting depression in seniors is tough because some symptoms look like normal aging or other illnesses. But with home care, skilled caregivers can figure out the cause of these symptoms (like loss of appetite, fatigue, or sleep troubles) and address them. Being in a familiar spot, spending time with family, and doing things they love—all of this helps manage depression.
Home caregivers don’t just handle treatments and meds; they also offer companionship and support during a tough phase. Being in a safe, cherished spot while getting healthcare is the dream for many seniors. If you want to know more about our senior in-home care services, get in touch with Bannister for a chat today.
Want a deeper understanding of depression? Have a look at the following resources.