Seniors are more susceptible to depression than other populations. Estimates are that more than 6 million seniors in the U.S. have depression, but not all of them get treatment for it. Seniors and their families may not realize that a senior is suffering from depression. In-home care providers can help with the management of depression.
The signs of depression in seniors that families should be aware of include:
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In-Home Care Floral Park NY – How In-Home Care Helps Seniors Manage Depression Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
- Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Overeating or appetite loss
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
- Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not get better, even with treatment
As you probably noticed many of those symptoms can also be symptoms of medical conditions or side effects from medication. That’s why family members may not realize that their senior loved one is actually suffering from depression. Medication can help seniors who are struggling with depression but so can in-home care.
In-home care from a caring home care provider can help seniors manage depression by:
Making Sure Seniors Take Their Meds
Because depression can be a side effect of medication and medical conditions it’s important that seniors take any prescribed medications on time and in the way that their doctor has prescribed. If they don’t then the medications may not work the way they are supposed to. In-home care providers can provide medication management to make sure that seniors are taking their prescriptions the right way and in the right doses. Keeping seniors on their meds consistently can help manage depression.
Giving Seniors Consistent Support
When seniors have a consistent in-home care provider who comes everyday or on certain days every week they get the benefit of consistent support. As they build a stronger relationship with their care provider that in-home care provider can take on the role of a caregiver, mentor, teacher, and friend who can help your senior loved one feel like with you and with their caregiver there is always someone around that cares about them.
Providing Social Engagement and Personal Connection
Social isolation is a huge problem for seniors, especially seniors that are aging in place. As their friends move away or pass away they can become frustrated and isolated at home. With regular visits from you and from a caregiver seniors won’t be so isolated that they feel alone. Engaging in activities like going out for a meal, going for a walk, playing games, doing crafts, cooking meals, or just watching TV can give seniors the social lifeline they need to feel vital and alive.
Even though depression is a big problem for seniors there are ways that you can help your senior loved one manage the symptoms of depression and stay engaged. Working with an in-home care provider will ensure that your senior loved one is always getting the social interaction and support that they need.
Sources: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/depression-and-older-adults
https://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-elderly
https://www.cdc.gov/aging/depression/index.html
If you or a family member are in need of hiring In-Home Care Services in Floral Park NY, or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
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