8 Ways To Support Your Loved One With Depression In Older Age

Introduction

Depression is a mental health condition that affects people of all ages, it is also very common and it can be especially challenging for those in older age. As we age, we are faced with many challenges that life brings such as health issues, loss of loved ones and big life changes such as retirement. These life changes can affect us in many ways like sadness and feelings of hopelessness leading to questioning our worth. Depression can also have an impact on an individual’s quality of life if left untreated. In this post we share some helpful ways you can support your loved one suffering from depression with strategies and identifying symptoms, when to seek professional help and the importance of providing emotional health.

Seek Professional Help

It is best to remember that depression is an illness which can often be alleviated and get better with professional treatment. Try and encourage your loved one to speak to a professional, whether this is their GP or a therapist can also help or group counselling may also be a good option, offer to help set up the doctor appointments and to go with them if they would like the support. A home carer can also help with providing additional support such as companionship.

Symptoms to watch out for:

• Decrease or loss of appetite
• Behavioural changes
• Sadness and feelings of despair
• Lack of motivation
• Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
• Neglecting personal hygiene
• Physical pains such as headaches and joint pain

Encourage Socialization & Hobbies

If your loved one is experiencing symptoms of depression one of the reasons may be loneliness or a lack of socialization. Encouraging your loved one to remain social is a great way to beat the symptoms of depression, you could encourage them to join a new club doing something they enjoy. Or attending local social events, this can also make a big difference as by participating in activities they enjoy, it provides a sense of fulfilment and purpose, keeping over thinking at bay.

For more ways to remain social see our previous post – The Importance of Socialising and Companionship

Promote a Healthy Lifestyle

Support your loved one to eat a healthy diet and get some regular exercise. Getting a good night’s sleep can also make a big difference, make sure your loved one sticks to a regular sleep schedule. For more ways to help with sleep see our previous article – 10 Tips To Help You Get Off To Sleep. Take them for a walk to the local park or just around the neighbourhood, the sunshine can also help with uplifting one’s mood. Don’t put too much pressure on them as this could have a negative effect, simply offer to do something with them.

Identify Any Underlying Illnesses

Illnesses and medical issues like chronic pain can dramatically contribute to depression for those in older age. If your loved one is experiencing any other symptoms you should advise them to seek medical attention to alleviate any ailments they are suffering with.

Medication

Check with your loved one and their doctor to identify if the medication they are taking has any side effects that could affect them. If they are taking medication for depression ensure they are taking the prescribed amount as they should, skipping tablets or stopping without a doctor’s advisory can have a negative impact. Help them to remember to take their medication if they are struggling to do so, set an alarm if necessary.

Address Any Financial Worries

Financial concern can weigh on older people and contribute to feelings of depression. Sit down with your loved one and address any concerns they may have; some people find it hard to raise concerns surrounding financial circumstances. There are government assisted programs that can help and financial advisors you can speak with.

Be Patient and Provide Emotional Support

Remember to be patient with your loved one, dealing with depression can be a long and challenging process. The effects of depression can make individuals feel lonely and isolated, providing your loved one with vital emotional support by simply spending time with them, listening to their worries and concerns and offering them words of encouragement can make a world of difference. Knowing they are heard and understood can be a great step towards healing. Those with depression tend to judge themselves harshly, remind them of their qualities and how much they mean to you and your family.  

Take Care of Yourself

Providing support to someone with depression can be emotionally draining, don’t forget to look after yourself and seek your own support from family members and friends or even a professional if needed. There are services available through Care providers such as respite care which offers you the time to yourself to focus on much needed self-care, whilst knowing your loved one is being cared for.