Myth #1: Depression is a normal part of ageing

·        Although depression is not a normal situation for the elderly, it is quite common.  It affects roughly 20% of the elderly population, a rate twice as high as the general population (10%). 

·        There are many elderly not affected by depression. Those who tend to be unaffected have some of the following characteristics:

•   Social supports in place

•   They are involved in activities and hobbies, primarily when retirement occurs

•   No previous history, and no family history of depression

•   They continue to feel they serve a purpose in life

•   They have less severe medical conditions

     Myth #2: The elderly cannot benefit from treatment of depression

·        When identified, treatment can be very useful in the elderly. The key is identification.

·        Just like in younger people, treatment often involves antidepressants. These medications can take a bit longer to take effect in the elderly, but they do work. As well, cognitive-behavioural approaches and counselling can help.   Increasing social supports and getting daily exercise are also important aspects of getting better. 

     Myth #3: There is no risk of suicide in the depressed elderly

·        Unfortunately, suicide is one of the most deadly complications of depression in all age groups. However, it is particularly of concern in the elderly. 

·        Statistics illustrate that in 2004, in the United States, 11 out of 100,000 depressed people in the general population committed suicide. However, that number rose to 14.3 out of 100,000 for people over the age of 65. This number grew to 49.8 out of 100,000 for white men over the age of 85 years old!

·        Elderly men are most at risk of suicide. Men always tend to use more lethal methods, resulting in a completed suicide. 

Myth #4: Depression means dementia is just around the corner

·        Studies have shown that there is a link between depression and dementia, with more people with depression going on to develop dementia. However, it does not mean that everyone has this fate! In other words, just because someone has depression, does not mean that he will necessarily go on to develop dementia too. However, to complicate matters, depression and dementia can co-exist in the elderly.

·        At this point in time, there is no clear evidence that suggests that depression causes dementia. It has, however, been noted that increased bouts of depression increase the likelihood of developing dementia. 

·        Although the symptoms of depression and dementia may look alike on the surface (memory problems, decreased motivation, etc.), they still require discernment in order that the best treatment can take place. Always see a physician who can rule out what is happening. 

In summary, four myths about depression in the elderly have been outlined above. Depression is very prominent in the elderly. No matter what the age, it is always essential for depression to be identified so that proper treatment can take place and then real living can resume. 

Ver todos los episodios