Better Living Author June 14, 2021
Depression in Older Adults: How Can You Help?
Depression is a common problem among
older adults, but it is NOT a normal part of aging. Important life changes
that happen as we get older may cause feelings of uneasiness, stress, and
sadness. After a period of adjustment, many older adults can regain their
emotional balance, but others do not and may develop depression.
Older adults do not always want to discuss how they are feeling with their children or loved ones. Here are some signs you can observe that may indicate they are experiencing depression.
Common signs:
- Trouble
falling asleep, or staying asleep
- Feeling tired,
even after a rest or nap
- Grumpy or
irritable attitude that is out of character
- Confusion
regarding dates and events
- Difficultly
paying attention to conversation or surroundings
- Lack of
interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Significant
changes in eating or weight (i.e. fixation on food, or neglecting to eat)
If you are noticing
any of these signs, here are some ways you can help.
- Listen. Start
the conversation and then simply listen to what they have to say without
offering suggestions or opinions.
- Prepare for
major life changes by planning ahead.
What does supported-aging look like for them? Would they want to move into a retirement
community? Is in-home care an option for them?
- Encourage
regular exercise. Try going for a walk
together in a local garden or park.
- Plan an
activity you can do together, such as a cooking or gardening.
- Help set up a
regular routine. This may ease some feelings of restlessness or anxiety.
- Encourage a
balanced diet by eating together.
- Assist with
making an appointment with their doctor.
- Have the
pharmacy to blister-pack any medications they take for easier management.
- Ask for help!
How can Better Living
Home Care Services help?
- Better Living
caregivers are able to prepare healthy meals for your older adult, and ensure
that they are eating regularly.
- Our caregivers
can also provide medication reminders, support with daily activities,
transportation to appointments, and engagement in regular exercise.
- A Better
Living Home Care Coordinator can send out bi-weekly visit reports, so you stay
updated on how your older adult is doing.
At Better Living Home
Care Services, we train our caregivers to look out for the signs of depression
in older adults. They are also equipped
with the tools need to help support older adults who are experiencing depressed
symptoms due to social, emotional and physical changes.
If you want to know more about services, or would like to book a free care consultation, please contact us at 604-427-0440 or email us at services@betterlivinghsc.com. We provide home care services in Langley, Surrey, White Rock and Delta.
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