Risk Factors for Later in Life Depression

Depression can develop at any age. As we reach our golden years we begin to face a great deal of change. These changes can be difficult to adjust to and accept resulting in symptoms of depression, even if you have never experienced symptoms of depression in the past. You may be more likely to develop depression later in life if you have a history of symptoms, however, this isn’t absolute. What we do know is that depression is treatable, counseling can help. 

Do You Need Help?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “5% of seniors 65 and over reported having current depression and about 10.5% reported a diagnosis of depression at some point in their lives.” These figures are likely higher due to the fact that many seniors go undiagnosed and untreated. Not many seniors realize they are experiencing symptoms of depression due to many symptoms manifesting in more physical ways. 

The Geriatric Mental Health Foundation identifies the following risk factors for depression in seniors:

  • Alcohol or substance abuse
  • Change of environment, like moving into assisted living
  • Dementia-causing illness (e.g. Alzheimer’s disease)
  • Illness or loss of a loved one
  • Long-term illness (e.g., cancer or heart disease)
  • Medication interactions
  • Physical disability
  • Physical illnesses that can affect emotion, memory and thought
  • Poor diet or malnutrition

The following ten symptoms of depression offered by A Place for Mom may also indicate a cause for concern:

  1. Changes in appearance or dress, or problems maintaining the home or yard
  2. Confusion, disorientation, problems with concentration or decision-making
  3. Decrease or increase in appetite; changes in weight
  4. Depressed mood lasting longer than two weeks
  5. Feelings of worthlessness, inappropriate guilt, helplessness; thoughts of suicide
  6. Memory loss, especially recent or short-term memory problems
  7. Physical problems that can’t otherwise be explained: aches, constipation, etc.
  8. Social withdrawal; loss of interest in things that used to be enjoyable
  9. Trouble handling finances or working with numbers
  10. Unexplained fatigue, energy loss or sleep changes

Hope for Depression with Counseling

Depression is treatable. By learning more about risk factors and symptoms you have the opportunity to intervene sooner rather than later. It is never too late to get help and make positive changes for yourself. 

Depression that develops later in life is often missed due to the fact that symptoms can manifest differently. While this may make diagnosis trickier it does not mean you can’t recover. 

Carolina Counseling Services – Cameron, NC contracts with knowledgeable, skilled therapists who know how to treat depression at any age. Call CCS today and schedule your first appointment.