Healthcare 2
Elderly depression
As the elderly population grows, so is the problems associated with it including
psychological challenges which make them feel a sense of self loss leading to feelings of
loneliness and too much stress and eventual depression. In the U.S alone, depression affects
about 6 million people above the age of 65.
Depression can be caused as a result of one living al by
his/ her self with no relative close by to bond with, loss
of touch with cultural norms, lack of interest in
previously enjoyable activities, medical conditions e.g. a
chronic disease, recent death of a loved one, fearing for
one’s life as one ages, isolation and poor medical
attention (Health, 2011).
When symptoms of depression like loss of interest
in daily activities start showing up, they should not
be ignored and immediate action ought to be taken
so as to prevent the possibilities of developing to
depression. If depression is allowed to take its
course in the elderly, it can lead to risks of getting
cardiac related diseases or even fastening death
from a disease.
Help can be offered to help prevent and/ or treat
depression at old age including: keeping the elderly
engage in some activities; embrace healthy living
habits like quality and enough sleeping time,
balanced diet and exercise (Anderson, 2001);
consulting professionals on medical assistance and
engaging in constant talks.
