Mental health is just as important in older age as it is at any other stage of life. However, it is often overlooked, misunderstood, or dismissed as a normal part of aging.
What is the most common mental illness in the elderly?
While aging brings inevitable physical changes, emotional and physical health challenges should not be accepted as unavoidable. Among the elderly, depression stands out as the most common mental illness, impacting millions of older adults across the globe (5.7% of older adults), according to the WHO.
Understanding the signs, causes, and treatment options for depression in seniors is crucial for caregivers, family members, healthcare providers, and seniors themselves. With awareness and support, older adults in Knightdale, NC, can live healthier, more fulfilling lives, mentally and emotionally. Keep reading to learn more about aging and depression.
According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and other prominent health organizations, depression is the most prevalent mental illness among the elderly. It affects approximately 1% to 5% of older adults in the general population, and higher rates are seen in those requiring home healthcare (up to 13.5%) or residing in long-term care communities (around 11.5%).
Despite being common, depression in seniors often goes undiagnosed or untreated. This is because the symptoms can present differently in older adults than in younger people and are frequently misattributed to aging, physical illness, or medication side effects.
Several factors make depression harder to detect in the elderly:
Because of this, depression often goes untreated, leading to diminished quality of life, increased disability, and higher mortality rates from both physical and mental health issues.
Many factors affect senior mental wellness and contribute to the development of depression in older adults in or out of senior living communities. These include the following:
Chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, stroke, Parkinson's disease, and cancer can increase the risk of depression. Pain, disability, or declining mobility can also contribute.
Loneliness and lack of social interaction are significant contributors. Seniors who live alone, have lost a spouse, or are geographically distant from family may experience isolation that leads to depression.
The loss of friends, partners, or family members, especially in quick succession, can trigger prolonged grief and emotional distress. This could develop into clinical depression.
Mild cognitive impairment or early-stage dementia can lead to confusion, frustration, and hopelessness. All of these can overlap with depressive symptoms.
Some medications commonly prescribed to seniors (such as beta blockers, corticosteroids, or sleeping aids) can have side effects. These can mimic or worsen depressive symptoms.
While some symptoms of depression are universal, others appear differently in older adults. Common signs of issues with emotional health in older adults include:
In seniors, depression may be more likely to manifest as irritability, apathy, or physical discomfort rather than sadness.
Distinguishing depression from early dementia is crucial, as the two conditions can look similar but require different treatments.
In depression, the individual may say, "I don't know" often, and their memory loss is typically due to poor concentration. In dementia, memory impairment is progressive and not linked to mood.
People with depression are often aware of their cognitive issues and are more likely to complain about them, while those with dementia may not recognize or acknowledge memory loss. A thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation can help clarify the diagnosis and determine appropriate care. Improved memory care awareness is also necessary here.
The good news is that depression in older adults is highly treatable, especially when identified early. Supporting aging loved ones includes effective treatment.
Talk therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or interpersonal therapy) helps seniors process grief, cope with life changes, and develop healthy thought patterns. Teletherapy is also becoming more available for homebound individuals.
Antidepressants can be effective, but must be prescribed carefully due to potential interactions with other medications. Healthcare providers often start at low doses and monitor for side effects.
Regular physical activity has been shown to boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
Encouraging social engagement through clubs, volunteer work, or senior centers can combat isolation.
Nutrition also plays a role, ensuring seniors receive balanced meals helps support both physical and mental health.
Participating in peer-led or professionally moderated support groups provides a sense of community and belonging, especially for seniors dealing with loss or chronic illness.
If a senior experiences signs of depression for more than two weeks, especially if they have lost interest in activities or express hopelessness, it's important to seek professional help. Family members and caregivers should stay alert to changes in mood, behavior, or energy levels.
Now you know the answer to the question, "What is the most common mental illness in the elderly?" Even though depression in older adults is common, that doesn't mean that it is an inevitable part of aging.
At TerraBella Knightdale, our staff are always doing what they can to keep the spirits of our residents high, using myriad activities, amenities, festivities, and more. We are here to ensure our residents live a better life in their retirement than ever before.
Schedule a tour to feel the difference for yourself.