Let's Talk About Depression in Older Adults
Jan 16, 2023 | Mental Health, Faces of HDGH
Blue Monday is here again and what started as a marketing gimmick has turned into a widely recognized occasion. With short daylight hours and long, cold winter nights, combined with the end of the holiday season, it is not uncommon for people to feel depressed or suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), depression or other mental health illnesses. Perhaps it’s not a coincidence that Bell Let’s Talk Day also happens shortly after – this year on Wednesday, January 25. These two events are a good reminder to reflect and talk about our own mental health and of those closest to us, while raising awareness to combat the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in the elderly demographic.
Depression is Not a Normal Part of Aging
For the older adult population, it is important to know that depression is NOT a normal part of aging, however they are at an increased risk for depression. As people age, there may be stressors in their life such as chronic conditions, reduced mobility, decreased functional ability, loneliness and social isolation that can lead to depression. Just like any other medical condition, such as diabetes or high blood pressure that requires treatment, depression is not something you can overcome by yourself. The good news is that depression can be successfully treated!How do you know if it’s depression?
Some signs and symptoms of depression in seniors include:- Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- Feelings of sadness or worry
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
- Irritability or restlessness or slowing of movement
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities or hobbies
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
- Too much or too little sleep (insomnia)
- Loss of appetite or eating too much
- Thoughts of suicide
- Persistent aches or pains, headaches, digestive problems that do not get better with treatment
The first step to feeling better is to ask for help
Early intervention and treatment can get you back to enjoying your life. Speak with a health care practitioner if you feel you may be experiencing depression and/or anxiety. They may consider referring you to the Geriatric Mental Health Outreach Team (GMHOT) where you can see a specialized physician as well as social workers and nurses.GMHOT is a community-based program that works to enhance the mental health and well-being of individuals over the age of 65 living at home in the community, in long-term care homes and retirement homes who are experiencing significant mental health issues or challenging expressions/behaviours. The program includes a comprehensive psychogeriatric assessment, psychoeducation, counselling and psychiatric treatment.To learn more about the program, speak to your physician or visit www.hdgh.org/geriatricmentalhealthoutreach.If you, or a loved one at any time are experiencing a mental health emergency, please contact Community Crisis at 519-973-4435 or go to your nearest emergency department.About the Authors
Julie Witcher has worked with the GMHOT for over 26 years. Early in her career she conducted assessments both in the community and Long Term Care. She currently acts as the Psychogeriatric Resource Consultant for Behavioural Supports Ontario in the Windsor-Essex County area with a specific focus on education of staff in long term care homes, retirement homes and community service agencies. In her spare time, she began taking virtual piano lessons during the pandemic and is now attempting to learn French - mostly to keep up with her 9-year old daughter.
Krista Skiba has been social worker in the community since 2002 and has worked in various departments at HDGH for the past 10 years. In 2017, she joined GMHOT and has become passionate about learning and working with the older adult population. Currently, she visits the 19 various long term care homes throughout Windsor-Essex County where she has built relationships with residents, family members, staff and administrators and offers individualized support to those referred who may be struggling with various mental health difficulties such as depression, anxiety, adjustment and grief. When not at work, she is a busy sports mom and enjoys walking. A fun fact about Krista is she can say the alphabet backwards!