Depression in the elderly, mistaken for ageing: what signs to look out for

Depression is a common mental health condition, and the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that 5.2% of adults worldwide suffer from it. Among people aged 70 and over, the prevalence is slightly higher, at 5.4%.

According to the US press, depression in older adults often goes unnoticed because its symptoms can be mistaken for normal signs of ageing or other health problems. Furthermore, some elderly people tend to limit their social interactions or avoid talking about how they feel, which makes recognising the condition even more difficult.

Although it is a mental disorder, the first observable signs of depression can, in fact, be physical. Doctor Liz Hughes draws attention to a list of symptoms worth watching out for:

• Unexpected changes in weight (gain or loss);
• Changes in appetite (eating more or less than usual);
• Abnormally low energy levels;
• Drastic changes in sleep patterns, such as excessive sleeping or insomnia.

"A person suffering from depression may also complain of physical pain without a clear medical cause, as an expression of their depressive state," explains doctor Rebecca Bouchard.

Hughes notes that depression in older adults can sometimes manifest through cognitive difficulties: new problems with thinking, concentration, or decision-making may in fact be a sign of this condition.

Bouchard observes that the cognitive symptoms of depression can mimic the memory problems associated with dementia, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as "pseudodementia". Unlike dementia, however, these symptoms tend to improve when depression is properly treated.

Hughes recommends paying attention to how the person in question looks after their home and personal hygiene. Additionally, irritability or restlessness without a clear explanation may indicate depression.

A core emotional symptom is the loss of interest in activities that previously brought the person pleasure. Social withdrawal and a lack of meaningful interaction with friends and family can also be warning signs.

According to Hughes, the first step in supporting someone with depression is an honest, non-judgemental conversation, in which you can gently remind them of the signs you have noticed and ask whether they have noticed them too. In most cases, people suffering from depression have already observed these changes, but sometimes the onset of the illness is gradual and harder to come to terms with.

"Ask them how you can help during this time. Perhaps you could offer an extra meal or an additional phone call each week," Hughes advises.

Bouchard suggests that family members support relatives suffering from depression by:

• Connecting them with mental health professionals;
• Being good listeners;
• Maintaining regular contact;
• Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, such as physical exercise, good nutrition, and regular sleep;
• Helping them with daily tasks.