Tips For Managing Elderly Depression During The Holidays

According to Mental Health America, more than two million of the 34 million Americans age 65 and older suffer from some form of depression – and during the holidays this number climbs.

Holidays are supposed to be times of joy, celebration, rest (if you can sneak some in) and most importantly family. But for many of our elderly, holidays can mean something totally different.

There are many situations where seniors may not view the holidays as a time of joyous celebration. For the elderly the holidays may serve as reminders of friends who may have passed away, their distance away from loved ones, lack of visitation (if they are in an assisted living facility) and the inability to take part in many holiday events.

What Causes Holiday Depression in the elderly?

We can’t actually call it “holiday depression” because it isn’t the actual holiday that is the cause of this feeling of depression. As we stated earlier there are a host of reasons that may lead to these feelings.

In many cases the symptoms that are characteristic of depression in the elderly can often be overlooked. This is because some people perceive these changes in behavior to be symptomatic of something else… Old Age (as in the stereotype of the old man screaming, “Get Off My Grass!”).

But in fact, depression may be a sign of a host of problems. It could be a result of memory loss, an illness, chronic pain or other medical problems, or even an improper diet.

How Do I Know If My Elder is Depressed?

Signs of depression in your elderly loved one can be difficult to identify and are often times overlooked when they overlap with other medical illnesses or health problems.

Family members and friends are cautioned to be alert to signs of holiday depression among seniors, regardless of whether they live on their own, with family members or in a long-term care facility.

Depression is more apparent in seniors who have limited options for travel, or whose family members are scattered over long distances. Some of the most common symptoms of elderly depression during the holidays may include:

•    Decreased Appetite
•    Change in sleeping patterns or lack of sleep
•    Lack of Personal Care or Hygiene
•    Irresponsible Behavior
•    Decreased interest in socializing
•    Increased Irritability

How Can Elderly Depression Be Treated?

Fortunately, depression is a treatable disease. Aside from medication, family and friends can offer their support and comfort to ease their loved ones’ feelings of despair. In some cases, treatment may be as simple as relieving loneliness through visitations, outings and involvement in family activities. In more severe cases professional help may be needed.

So although holidays can be very stressful for everyone, take this time to make sure your elderly loved one is a part of all of the festivities and feels that special feeling that we all seek during these occasions. It can go a long way towards bolstering their sense of self worth.

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1. Tips For Managing Elderly Depression During The Holidays
2. Depression and the Elderly
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