Lots of people go through times when they just want to be isolated for a while with their thoughts, to sort out issues in their lives without distractions, or simply to have some downtime. For seniors, however, being isolated for an extended period of time might be indicative of a more concerning condition: depression.
At Compassionate Care Home Health Services, our caregivers understand the impacts of depression in older adults, and want to offer help. The most important first step is to get in touch with the older person’s physician right away if you suspect he or she may be struggling with depression. Depression can be treated, and the sooner, the better.
Be on the lookout for these warning signs of senior depression in your loved ones:
- Loss: A variety of types of loss can trigger depression or other medical concerns: losing weight, losing the desire to eat, a loss of self-worth, a loss of interest in activities or pastimes that were previously enjoyed, or a reduction in time spent with friends or family.
- Slowing Down: Observe if the older adult’s movements or speaking have slowed down, if it takes the person longer than before to share or recall memories, or if motivation or energy are lessened.
- Sleeping Changes: Depression can have significant effects on sleep patterns, such as trouble with falling or staying asleep, awakening, or being alert and awake during the day.
- Forgetfulness: Look for changes in how the senior takes care of herself; for instance, if she was always careful about maintaining good personal hygiene and taking care with her appearance, but suddenly starts to disregard personal care, or any other vital changes such as forgetting to take medicine, to eat a balanced diet, etc.
Various other medical conditions tend to also make depression worse. Be particularly mindful if the older adult has been impacted by any of the following:
- Cancer
- Stroke
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
- Alzheimer’s disease or dementia
- Thyroid conditions
If you suspect senior depression in a loved one, it’s vitally important to take action and not to disregard it as just something the person will get over in time. Depression is a chronic medical condition that calls for treatment in order to recover.
And remember, you’re not alone! The Compassionate Care Home Health Services’ caregivers are available to help aging adults through senior depression or with any other care that may be required to remain comfortable. We’re skilled in providing creative, compassionate in-home care in Saginaw, MI for seniors. We proudly offer friendly companionship to help encourage participation in exercise programs and social activities, assistance to prepare appetizing, healthy meals, transportation to doctors’ appointments and to run errands, and more.
If you’re interested in learning more about our in-home care in Saginaw, MI and the surrounding communities, reach out to us any time at 877.308.1212.