There is no age threshold for the onset of depression. Depression in the elderly is common and can be a natural reaction to life events like a decline in health or the loss of a close friend, but it shouldn’t be a constant companion. In other words, depression can be helped by medical care. Consider hiring personal health care Phoenixville.
Persistent feelings of melancholy or hopelessness are among the most obvious symptoms of depression, but many others may also affect seniors. It’s possible that some people don’t even recognise these are connected to depression:
- Disinterest in past hobbies
- Alterations to sleeping patterns, such as insomnia or an increase in fatigue
- Shifts in Appetite
- Signs of discomfort that can’t be pinned on anything else
- Irritability
- Focusing is difficult
If an older person notices a shift in their general health or something out of the ordinary, they should consult their physician. By speaking up, elders can obtain the care they need to stop suffering and start living again.
Strategies for Avoiding Depression
Seniors can take charge of their own mental health and quality of life in many ways. Aging-in-place elders are particularly vulnerable to the negative mental health effects of loneliness and isolation. Some suggestions for improving social life and emotional well-being are as follows.
Go after your interests.
Do things on your own or join a community organisation that will help you meet new people and try new things. Participating in intellectually stimulating activities such as joining a book club, taking an art class, playing golf, or studying the piano can be extremely rewarding. There is a lot of free time for seniors to pursue interests or develop new skills.
Actively participate in local affairs.
Giving back to the community through volunteer work is a great way to meet new people and maintain existing relationships. Spending even a few hours volunteering at a local library, animal shelter, teaching children, planning an event, or greeting people at a local hospital or company may have a significant impact on the community. It’s a great way for retirees to make new friends and continue participating in activities they enjoy.
Keep moving around. Working out your muscles is good for your mind. Keeping active helps alleviate stress and tension and release the feel-good endorphins that are produced during physical exertion. Overall health and happiness can benefit from regular exercise since it increases mobility, balance, flexibility, and coordination.