Everyone gets sad sometimes. Sadness is a normal emotion that people often fear discussing because it may cause others to think there is something wrong with them. That’s why it helps to differentiate between sadness and depression so that you can tell if your loved one is processing a healthy emotion or if they have become stuck and have developed a serious mood disorder. Their home care provider can watch for symptoms and communicate with both you and your loved one about any concerns that they may witness.
If you are caring for an elderly loved one from a distance, having a home care provider to help check in on your loved one regularly and report back about any changes in behavior can be a huge advantage to staying on top of any mental health conditions that may develop.
While depression doesn’t always stem from a period of sadness or struggle, it often can, so understanding the risk factors that can lead to serious depression is one step to helping you manage your loved one’s health. While none of these risk factors are guaranteed to cause depression, they can increase the risk of it, especially when multiple risk factors are combined. Having a home care provider available can be helpful in watching for changes.
Risk Factors for Depression in Your Elderly Loved One
Social isolation. Being alone too much is never good for anyone, even those who are naturally introverts. How much social interaction your loved one needs will vary per person, but having someone check in on them regularly is one good way to reduce the risk of depression. Consider having a home care provider who interacts with your loved one regularly.
Chronic diseases. A chronic disease is a disease that your loved one will have for an extended time, perhaps without the ability to find a cure or relief from the disease. It can range from some cancers to diseases like Parkinson’s disease or the aftereffects of a serious stroke. These types of diseases have a way of making those battling them lose hope, which can lead to depression.
Family history. Depression is hereditary and those who have family members who have already or are currently battling depression are more likely to be overcome by it. Even if your loved one has never been diagnosed with depression, she may be at a higher risk if she has some of the other factors as well.
Sleep disorders. Sleep plays an important role in the body being able to reset each night and for the brain to clear itself of negative or intrusive thoughts. Unfortunately, with age, many seniors develop sleep disorders that continually interrupt their ability to have a good night’s sleep.
Alcohol use. A lifetime of alcohol abuse can lead to depression as well as any type of drug addiction.
Non-stop stress. Life is full of little stressors – the stove broke, the neighbor is annoying, or the dog just peed on the rug for the fifth time. But stress that never ends like financial worries, an inability to keep up with housework, or family issues can lead to depression. If long-term stress is unavoidable, having someone counsel your loved one through it can help reduce the risk of depression developing.
If behaviors start to change in your loved one that their home care aides have noticed, consider these risk factors as you try to help him determine if he’s feeling some momentary sadness or if he needs professional help for his depression.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Rockville Center NY, please get in touch with the caring staff at Star Multi Care today. Call (631) 424-7827
Star Multi Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Long Island and in NYC including Dix Hills, Floral Park, Great Neck, Huntington, Manhasset, Massapequa, Northport, Plainview, Rockville Center, Stonybrook, Suffolk County, Nassau County, and Queens County.
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