An emotional and mental condition affecting older persons is geriatric depression. Sorrow and occasionally feeling “blue” are common. However, prolonged despair is not a common part of becoming older.
It is more common for older persons to suffer from subsyndromal depression. Sometimes, the whole range of requirements for serious depression is not fulfilled by this type of depression. However, if untreated, it might result in severe depression. If you or someone you love requires to address depression newark has several mental health centers that you can contact.
Depression in older adults: Geriatric depression
In any age group, depression cannot be traced to a single factor. According to some studies, there may be a genetic link to the disorder. However, depression in older individuals is affected by biological, social, and mental factors.
According to research, the following factors can worsen depression:
- Low concentrations of essential neurotransmitter molecules (such as serotonin and norepinephrine)
- Devastating life events such as abuse or the loss of a loved one, or a
- Family history of depression
Symptoms
Depression symptoms may vary from person to person. The following are some of the most typical symptoms and signs of depression in elderly people:
- Low or depressed state of mind
- Tiredness or a lack of energy
- Absence of interest in once-enjoyed activities
- Feeling regretful, miserable, or worthless without cause
- Trouble with concentration, reasoning, or making choices
- Either too little or too much sleep
- Aches or discomfort
- Digestion problems
- Changes in appetite
Treatment
Treatment options for geriatric depression may include therapy, medication, and other alternative approaches.
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Medication
A medical expert may prescribe any of the antidepressants documented below:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs work by raising serotonin concentrations in the brain to treat depression. Sertraline is a common and reliable SSRI used to treat depression in older people. Escitalopram and citalopram are more drugs.
- Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): They encourage the brain to make more norepinephrine and serotonin. If SSRIs fail to work, doctors could recommend them. SNRIs include medicines like duloxetine and venlafaxine. Because SNRI drugs have fewer side effects, health professionals believe they are safe and helpful in treating depression in older patients.
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): When all other antidepressants fail to work, doctors might recommend MAOIs. Dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine are not eliminated from the brain by monoamine oxidase if MAOIs are administered. Isocarboxazid and phenelzine are two examples. Tyramine levels may be raised in certain individuals as a result of MAOI use, leading to high blood pressure. Health professionals advise MAOI users to monitor their blood pressure and avoid tyramine-rich foods such as dried sausage, fermented soy products, and poorly preserved food.
