How Does Depression In the Elderly Differ From Depression in Younger Adults?

Depression impacts older people differently than younger people. In the elderly, depression often occurs with other medical illnesses and disabilities and lasts longer. Depression in the elderly often increases their risk of cardiac diseases. Depression doubles an elderly person's risk of cardiac diseases and increases their risk of death from illness.

At the same time, depression reduces an elderly person's ability to rehabilitate. Studies of nursing home patients with physical illnesses have shown that the presence of depression substantially increases the likelihood of death from those illnesses. Depression also has been associated with increased risk of death following a heart attack. For that reason, making sure that an elderly person you are concerned about is evaluated and treated is important, even if the depression is mild.

Studies show that Medication combined with Counseling can be very beneficial in the treatment of depression. Our Psychiatric Nurses on Staff have years of experience in counseling and diagnosing those with cerebral distress.

If you or your loved one are currently battling symptoms of depression, please reach out to us and we can evaluate the situation, an provide Psychiatric assistance and counseling during this time of grief.