Depression can affect everyone regardless of age, health, stature, wealth, etc. According to the 2018 statistics from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association, older adults aged 50 and older have a 4.5% rate for major depressive episodes in the US.
This statistic is lower than most demographics, with adolescents at a 14.4% rate and young adults at 13.8%. But depression among the elderly is difficult to spot and even more difficult to have diagnosed because it manifests differently compared to how it does among younger people.
Also, its symptoms are similar to the natural physiological changes as one age and may mimic symptoms from common chronic medical conditions among seniors, such as diabetes and hypertension. All these are easy to miss, even with dedicated non-medical home care services available for them.
So, how do you know if your senior is just blue or having a depressive episode?
Here are several signs you must look out for from us at Angel Caregivers, Inc., your trusted home care provider in Harwood Heights, Illinois:
- Loss of concentration and other cognitive changes
- Decreased energy and appetite
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Trouble sleeping, oversleeping, or wanting to sleep during the day
- Restlessness and irritability
- Unplanned and significant weight gain or weight loss
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Feelings of inappropriate guilt
All these said, it is best to have them undergo an expert evaluation for a proper diagnosis. Need assistance? Our caregivers in Illinois can assist and make your physician visit easier.