Have you noticed that your senior parents seem less interested in activities they once enjoyed? Perhaps their daily routines no longer include the hobbies they loved, or they just seem generally rundown.
Now more than ever, it’s crucial to check on our aging friends and family to ensure their isolation isn’t leading to depression. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 7 million of the 35 million people in the U.S. aged 65 and older suffer from depression. Social isolation is one of the leading causes of depression in seniors. While depression can have serious, long-lasting effects, it is also preventable if you recognize the warning signs early.
Check In Regularly
Regular contact with your aging loved ones is essential for spotting early signs of depression and maintaining their mental health. Whether through in-person visits, phone calls, or video chats, these interactions can significantly impact keeping depression at bay.
If you or someone you know needs help setting up technology to stay in touch with family and friends or needs assistance scheduling regular calls, SF Home Care can help! Our compassionate caregivers can set up these regular check-ins.
Familiarize Yourself With The Warning Signs
Preventing depression starts with knowing what to look for. Depression isn’t just about feeling sad. According to the National Institute on Aging, it can manifest in various ways in seniors, such as:
- Exhaustion and trouble sleeping
- Moodiness or irritability
- Confusion or trouble concentrating (unrelated to Alzheimer’s or dementia)
- Noticeable changes in diet (eating significantly more or less)
Health issues can also cause depression. Any condition that restricts blood flow can potentially lead to depression or worsen existing mental health issues in seniors.
Listen & Let Them Express Themselves
Seniors might not be upfront about feeling depressed or anxious, often due to a generational stigma around mental health. Create an open dialogue and reassure them that discussing mental health issues is not taboo. You’re there to help them navigate these issues with respect and compassion.
Once communication lines are open, ask what would make them happy. If they miss weekly gatherings or bingo, arrange a bingo night, either in person or virtually. There are many ways to engage with our aging loved ones that can make a big difference in their lives.
If you’re looking for ideas on how to engage seniors to prevent isolation and depression, or if you need someone to provide companionship, SF Home Care has caregivers ready to help!
Stay Involved In Their Medical Care & Wellness
Even if you can’t attend medical visits with your loved ones, staying informed about their health and wellness can make a big difference. Help manage appointments, ensure they stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy diet. Simple reminders or virtual participation in appointments can help keep seniors physically healthy, which is crucial in fighting depression.
Depression can be managed with the help of healthcare providers. From medications to therapy, there are many ways to tackle depression and help seniors thrive as they age.
SF Home Care can connect you with a nutritionist or provide caregivers to accompany you or your loved one to appointments and ensure dietary needs are met regularly.
Ask For Help!
Resources for managing mental health struggles are readily available and completely confidential. The National Institute on Aging, National Alliance on Mental Illness, and SF County Behavioral Health and Recovery Services all offer free support.
If managing your own depression is challenging, or if you’re looking for support to help a loved one, don’t hesitate to ask for help. SF Home Care’s team of skilled caregivers has years of experience and training to help navigate dealing with depression.
For a complimentary home care assessment, please call us at (415) 961-0334. Our Director of Care Management, David Salameh, is ready to guide you through establishing in-home care and answer any questions you may have. You are not alone in your journey with depression or mental health issues.