Identifying Depression Among Our Senior Loved Ones

Anyone can develop depression and other mental health issues at any point in life and at any age.

Unfortunately, this means that your senior loved one can develop it, too. And aside from that one pervasive myth that depression is just natural part of aging and thus is not a matter of concern, there is also the matter of its symptoms resembling the age-related changes that happen in aging.

These two factors make it difficult for your senior loved one to seek help and for you to help them.

Thus, as your home care provider in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, we at Goodwill Healthcare, Inc. have enumerated the tell-tale signs of depression among seniors. These include:

• Lack of energy or motivation and noticeable restlessness
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Changes in appetite resulting in weight loss or gain
• Physical aches and pains even without direct cause
• Irritability and intolerance
• Loss of interest or pleasure and feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Difficulties with concentration or decision-making, which already warrants assistance from a home maker services provider

Noticeably, these symptoms are similar to an adult’s experience with depression. That is why it is crucial that you consult with their provider of personal care assistance in Pennsylvania or their home care in Poconos, Pennsylvania if they are receiving such services, your family members, and anyone close to them to verify. Also, bear in mind that these feelings should last more than two weeks to qualify for the illness.