Understanding Causes & Symptoms Of Depression In Older Adults

Getting older: It is a natural part of life, sometimes considered a reason to celebrate, enjoy one’s later years, and spend time with loved ones. However, aging may not always be easy, particularly for those who experience mental health challenges later in life.

Before getting into the reasons depression might affect older adults, it may be worth reviewing what depression is and how it may manifest. 

• A persistent feeling of sadness or emptiness
• A loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Trouble concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things
• Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
• Feelings of restlessness or anxiety
• Trouble fulfilling daily responsibilities

• Insomnia or oversleeping
• Changes in appetite, such as over- or undereating
• Weight fluctuations
• Muscle aches or unexplained pains
• An increased use of alcohol or drugs

What are the different types of depression?

• Major depressive disorder: Commonly associated with the more general term “depression,” major depressive disorder refers to depression that persists for an extended period of time (typically two or more weeks) and can affect day-to-day functioning.
• Postpartum depression: Sometimes referred to as PPD, postpartum depression is a form of depression that may affect new parents.
• Seasonal affective disorder: Seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD, is a form of depression that can cause mood changes based on the seasons, with depressive symptoms often occurring in the fall and winter months.
• Persistent depressive disorder: Also known as PDD or dysthymia, persistent depressive disorder is a form of mild to moderate depression that may last for a prolonged period of time (typically two or more years).

Regardless of the type, depression can have a range of impacts on one’s mental and physical health. Because depression can impact a person’s lifestyle — for instance, their eating, sleeping, or exercise habits — it may have the potential to lead to weight gain or inflammation. This, in turn, can raise the risk of conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease. A long-term study published in 2020 also found an association between depression and dementia, a category of diseases that tend to be more common among older adults. 

• The loss of loved ones
• Reduced self-reliance and independence due to lower mobility, strength, or balance
• A lack of exercise (physical activity has been associated with a reduced risk of developing depression)
• Stress, whether due to family matters, financial challenges, or other factors
• Chronic pain, which has been associated with an increased risk of developing depression, or other health conditions such as heart disease

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Managing symptoms: Strategies for older adults

• Staying socially connected, whether through phone calls, video calls, or in-person visits
• Offering social and emotional support
• Participating in enjoyable activities alongside loved ones who are elderly
• Encouraging elderly loved ones to seek treatment for concerning symptoms
• Providing support in following treatment plans

Additionally, for older adults who are experiencing depression, the following strategies may be helpful for managing symptoms and tending to overall wellness:

• Getting physical exercise, whether through walking, swimming, attending aerobics classes, or participating in other activities
• Eating a healthy diet
• Getting enough sleep
• Staying connected with loved ones, either in-person or remotely
• Engaging in social activities, such as group classes, community events, or volunteer work
• Seeking treatment from a medical provider or mental health professional
• Seeking support from friends, loved ones, or other trusted sources

For those who need extra support when it comes to managing the effects of depression on themselves or their loved ones or the different stressors that can be part of aging, therapy can also be a useful resource. A licensed therapist may be able to provide a safe space for discussing emotions or to offer suggestions for tending to one’s mental health and overall well-being. 

That said, commuting to a counselor’s office for in-person therapy may not always be practical — for example, for older adults who might be experiencing reduced mobility. In these cases, online therapy through platforms like BetterHelp may be a helpful alternative as it offers the option to attend counseling from the comfort of home via voice call, video call, or in-app messaging. 

Online therapy has been found to be an effective form of treatment for a variety of mental illnesses, including depression. For example, a 2017 study found that internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy was useful for treating and managing depression, anxiety, panic disorder, phobias, and more.