Statistics show that approximately 6.5 million of the 35 million registered elders in America are suffering from elderly depression. It is a condition often taken for granted because others think of it as a natural phenomenon which is experienced by everyone who reaches the age of 65 and beyond while others disregard it because they are unknowledgeable on how to address this type of problem.

Elderly depression is a serious condition because it is the major cause of suicide for older white men. Some of these elders tried to reach out to their loved ones for assistance unfortunately only a very few of them managed to received proper medical attention in due time. Thus most who suffer from elderly condition resolve in taking these matters into their own hands by committing suicide.

The common reason behind elderly depression is linked with dependency and disability
Their limited movement and very little productivity in the household makes these elders feel unwanted, unimportant and unloved. Moreover, these make them more sensitive even with the slightest sign of annoyance or irritation coming from any members of the household.

The signs of elderly depression include memory problems, weight loss, irritability, vague complaints of pain, confusion, social withdrawal, delusions, inability to sleep, loss of appetite or may even lead to severe behavior like becoming overly demanding, help-seeking, persistence and movement of very slow manner. The sad thing about this matter is the fact that most family members associate these illnesses with the natural deterioration of the body due to aging and fails to notice that it is already their way of manifesting their sadness, frustrations and disappointments. They often misinterpret it as one of the signs of dementia, cancer, arthritis, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s disease and other degenerative diseases.

Some of these elders know that the cause of their illnesses is elderly depression yet they choose not to disclose it to the family because they fear of being humiliated and made fun of. Some are too concerned with the cost of the treatment while the rest are too ashamed to put additional burden to the family who is taking care of them. Little do they know that treatment is the best solution so they can regain their confidence, self-esteem and happy disposition which are also beneficial to other family members.

Family members should be more sensitive with the needs of their elders. Elderly depression is not a difficult condition to treat especially if they have supportive family members who are willing to make their last few years on this earth a happy and satisfying one. Take time to chat with them during the weekends or when you are not busy at work. Inquire about their thoughts and give them an assurance that  they are still wanted, needed and loved. These are the best defenses so they will never be bothered with elderly depression.