26
Sep
Elderly Depression? Irritability, Headache, and Insomnia: 9 Major Symptoms to Watch Out For!
Depression is a common disease, especially for the elderly, but this does not mean that it is normal for people to suffer from depression as they get older. Depression is not just about feeling sad and tired, but involves a more serious condition; therefore, do not ignore any symptoms of depression and mistakenly think that it is just a low mood. Depression can be cured.
People with depression may feel depressed or anxious, often for weeks at a time. Without treatment, the symptoms may worsen and last for months or even years, and the patient may even feel suicidal.
Depression that occurs in the elderly is often combined with other diseases and lasts longer. Depression in the elderly increases the risk of heart disease and even death from heart attack. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the symptoms of depression in the elderly and receive timely treatment.
9 symptoms of depression in the elderly
- Irritable, restless
- Eating too much or losing appetite
- Pessimistic, feeling that there is no hope in life
- Losing interest in things you like
- Difficulty falling asleep, waking up too early or going to bed too late
- Having suicidal thoughts or attempting suicide
- Difficulty concentrating, difficulty remembering things, difficulty making decisions
- Feeling guilty, helpless, and useless
- Frequent body aches, headaches, cramps, or inexplicable digestive tract problems that don’t get better after seeing a doctor
10 risk factors for depression in older adults
- Female
- Lonely
- Disability
- Can’t sleep well
- Taking specific medications
- Alcohol or drug abuse
- Have a brain disease
- A personal or family history of depression
- Suffering from chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc
. - Going through something painful, such as losing a partner, getting divorced, or caring for someone with a chronic illness
If you notice any symptoms related to depression, be sure to see your doctor. Most of the elderly suffering from depression can be treated. Only by receiving proper treatment can they regain health and a better life.
