1. “Everyone feels sad or
blue sometimes. It is a natural
part of life. But when the sadness
persists and interferes with everyday
life, it may be depression. Depression is
not a normal part of growing older. It is
a treatable medical illness, much like
heart disease or diabetes.”
— Geriatric Mental Health Foundation
To honor National Depression
Screening Day, this infographic
provides information and tools to
promote early recognition and
treatment of depression in older
adults. Learn more and take
action: http://bit.ly/16Q9GE8
Depression – Not a
Normal Part of Aging
Depression (also known as Major
Depressive Disorder) IS…
• A lifelong condition and mood state that goes well
beyond temporarily feeling sad or blue
• A serious medical illness that affects one’s:
- Thoughts
- Feelings
- Behavior
- Mood
- Physical Health
Learn more: http://bit.ly/1fgHz38
Depression IS NOT…
• A normal part of aging
• A natural reaction to chronic illness, loss and
social transition
The Impact of
Untreated Depression
• Untreated depression has
been connected to chronic
conditions such as:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Stroke
- Increased health care costs
- Inability to function
- Disability
• Older adults have the highest rates of suicide
of any age group
Learn more: http://1.usa.gov/19e6K07
The Symptoms of
Depression
Here is a list of the most common
symptoms of depression in older
adults. Review this list, check any symptoms
that you notice and share the list with your
healthcare provider.
Memory problems
Vague complaints of pain
Confusion
Inability to sleep
Social withdrawal
Irritability
Loss of appetite
Delusions
Weight loss
Hallucinations
• Clients with depression often have shifting
periods of wellness and relapse
• A diagnosis of depression should include:
- A physical exam
- A review of medications
- A clinical & psychiatric interview
- Speaking with family/friends
- Blood tests
- Imaging studies
Learn more: http://bit.ly/1bWhin6
Treating Depression
in Older Adults
“For older adults (age 60+),
the top recommended treatment is
home or clinic-based depression
care management (DCM).”
Task Force on Community Preventive Services
The quote above calls out the importance of
home-based depression care, education,
support and treatment. The most effective
treatment for depression in older adults
combines medicine with:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Client and family education
- Support groups
- Wellness
- Home care coordination
Learn more: http://bit.ly/1fgHz38
Fight Depression
Action Plan
If you think that you or someone you care about
may be living with depression, the following
resources can help.
Learn more about Depression in Older Adults:
http://1.usa.gov/GFAHxt
Learn more about National Depression Screening Day:
http://bit.ly/16Q9GE8
Join a Support Group:
http://bit.ly/GFAIBu
Get emergency help, if you or
someone you care about are at
risk for self-injury or suicide.
- Don't leave the person alone
- Call 911 or a local emergency number right away
- Or, if you think you can do so safely, take the person
to the nearest hospital emergency room yourself
brought to you by:
GriswoldHomeCare.com
© 2013 Griswold International, LLC