Depression is the most common form of mental illness, especially among the aging population. It is depressing to realize that one is nearing the end rather than the beginning of life.
Depression is a normal part of the aging process. Why not? You may have aches and pains from diseases and disorders; you may have physical immobility or disability (having others to look after your bathing, dressing, cooking, and shopping, among others). On top of these, loneliness from loss of loved ones, and feeling unloved and abandonment only adds insult to the injury.
In the elderly, depression may be caused by:
(1) hormonal changes that come with age
(2) crises in health
(3) side effects of medications
(4) changes in circumstances, such as bereavement or moving to a nursing home
(5) dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
Mental depression distorts your view of the world at large. Therefore, it is important to keep depression at bay as you continue to age.
(1) Keep a medication journal: jot down the medications you are taking, your drug tolerance, and drug interactions. According to research findings on seniors taking medications (prescription or over-the-counter drugs), many seniors simply take too much (thinking that if one is good, more must be better), too long, and sometimes even mixed with alcohol. Do not take any medication unnecessarily. Medications may not be good for you. Visit my website: Doctor, You’re Fired!
(2) Maintain a sense of self at any age. This is where spirituality may come in. If you believe that you are made in the image of God, you see your self-worth at any stage of your life, irrespective of your current conditions. Spirituality gives meaning to your existence, as well as fosters your social concern for others. In addition, prayer may take away your anxiety about the future.
(3) Keep yourself mentally active and physically mobile to keep depression away.
(4) Identify the stressors in your life, and do something about them. Stress is a major factor in depression. Learn how to conquer stress.
(5) Talk positively about aging. Daily positive affirmations are a must. Train your mind to change your thoughts about yourself.
Depression does not have to be a part and parcel of the aging process.
Stephen Lau
Copyright© by Stephen Lau
