Understanding Depression in Senior Citizens

Depression is one of the most difficult and most misunderstood illnesses. It is a condition that affects millions of people but for senior citizens going through it, it can feel like no one understands how they are feeling. It can be easy to think that our elderly loved ones are just sad, lonely, or even frustrated with this current situation in life. However, depression is much more than just being down. Here are a few things you need to understand about depression in senior citizens:

• It’s an Illness: One of the most misunderstood aspects of depression is the fact that it is an actual illness. For people who never experienced depression, it can look like sadness on the surface, thus, it is hard for many people to relate or sympathize with someone who has depression because they have never gone through it themselves. Unlike sadness, which can go way in a few days at the most, depression can last for months if not years and in many cases, requires medical treatment.
• Support: If you know an elderly loved one going through depression, the best thing you can do is support them. However, it is important to know how to help them. Many people try to give helpful words of advice like “Just go out”, “Find a hobby”, “Just be happy”. Even though these words are said in good faith, they can create a vicious cycle. When you are depressed even the simplest things like brushing your teeth or taking a shower can be impossible because the only thing you want to do is lie in bed and let everything go. So the best way to support your loved one is to simply encourage them. Help them accomplish something, even minor things.
• Residential Care: A residential care facility in Rancho Palos Verdes California can be a great source of help for your elderly loved one going through depression. The reason behind this is due to the fact that they will not only have personalized support that can help lift the burden on their shoulders but they also be immersed in a supportive and compassionate atmosphere, full of people who know exactly how they are feeling. Assisted living in California can make a huge difference.

Those are just a few of the many things you need to understand about depression in senior citizens. If you would like to find out more about this or about our assisted living home in Torrance, please feel free to get in touch with Pacific Sunrise Home anytime.