{"id":123,"date":"2022-01-26T07:31:00","date_gmt":"2022-01-26T07:31:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/scaadvisorsprd.wpenginepowered.com\/utah\/2022\/01\/26\/how-to-help-seniors-with-depression-some-important-information-and-advice\/"},"modified":"2022-01-26T07:31:00","modified_gmt":"2022-01-26T07:31:00","slug":"how-to-help-seniors-with-depression-some-important-information-and-advice","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/scaadvisorsprd.wpenginepowered.com\/utah\/2022\/01\/26\/how-to-help-seniors-with-depression-some-important-information-and-advice\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Help Seniors with Depression: Some Important Information and Advice"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Sadness is a normal emotion, and everyone has felt it. But when it dominates all other feelings, when it increases in intensity and lasts longer than a few weeks, a person might be suffering from depression. Depression in seniors is not uncommon, though it’s important to note that it is not necessarily a normal part of aging. In fact, studies have shown that in general, seniors tend to be more satisfied with life as compared to their younger counterparts. Still, when seniors become depressed, it can compound what may already be a challenging set of circumstances. The good news is, there are many ways to treat depression, and some involve simple lifestyle changes.<\/p>\n

What Is Depression?<\/h2>\n

Understanding Depression in Seniors<\/h2>\n

Depression<\/a> is a serious mood disorder that affects the way a person feels, acts, and thinks. If someone has suffered from depression as a young person, chances are they will also be affected by it as a senior. Depression can range from mild to severe and last from a few days to years. Some depressive episodes last only a few weeks but interfere completely with a person\u2019s ability to handle daily tasks; others can last years but not impede a loved one\u2019s competency at managing everyday life. Depression can have its root cause in genetics, can be related to a separate illness, like heart disease or multiple sclerosis, or be the result of substance abuse or prescription medications. Depending on what kind and how severe the depression is, treatment will vary.<\/p>\n

How to Help a Senior with Depression<\/h2>\n

The Impact of Isolation on Senior Depression<\/h2>\n

Seniors are at risk of isolation and feelings of loneliness, which can exacerbate depression if they are already living with it. The good news is, if you\u2019re wondering how to help a senior with depression, the condition is highly treatable and can be relieved by talk therapy with a licensed professional and\/or prescription antidepressants. Even better, there are some very simple lifestyle changes that, when made, can alleviate or get rid of depression altogether. These include:<\/p>\n