Grief And Loss
Your aging loved one has to face the fact that the longer they live, the more family members and friends will pass away before them. Losing the persons they care about can leave seniors feeling jilted and weak, leading to depression and anxiety.
Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders for seniors, affecting about 5% of seniors worldwide. The illness causes a long-term change in mood or a lack of interest in activities. Here are some of the signs you should look for:
- Feeling hopeless, sad, or guilty
- Restlessness or irritability
- Fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping or overly sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Physical pain without an obvious cause
Some of the symptoms we mentioned are normal if experienced for short periods, especially after a significant life event. But, if they continue for over two weeks, they might be a sign of a mental health issue.
The good news is that depression is one of the most treatable mental health conditions. Roughly 80% of seniors with depression can get better with the proper treatment.
