Signs of Depression

Eric Shapira, DDS, MA
Clinical Gerontologist-Aging Specialist
Aging Mentor Services, Inc.

• Depression is not a normal part of aging
• Depression is a medical condition treated at any age
• Untreated depression in the elderly is more likely to lead to suicide than in any other age group.

1. Psychological factors
2. environmental factors
3. physical factors, including genetics
4. personality characteristics
5. medications

Symptoms:

• agitation
• anxiety
• persistent, or unexplained physical complaints
• memory problems
• social withdrawal
• decreased appetite/wt gain or loss
• sleep disturbances
• irritability/reduced energy
• lack of attention to personal care
• confusion, delusions or hallucinations
• hopelessness/abnormal thoughts
• sadness, lack of play, inability to laugh
• loss of interest in normal activities
• loss of self-worth/suicidal thoughts