Depression in the elderly
Key points
- Depression in the aged is common and is often unrecognised as such.
- There also tends to be an element of ageism with loneliness and concerns regarding ill health being regarded as a normal part of ageing.
- As they tend to present more commonly with physical complaints, general practitioners may miss a diagnosis of depression.
- It has been estimated that as many as 25-50% of those over age 65 may have some symptoms of depression.
Depression in the aged is common and is often unrecognised as such. As they tend to present more commonly with physical complaints, general practitioners may miss a diagnosis of depression.
There also tends to be an element of ageism with loneliness and concerns regarding ill health being regarded as a normal part of ageing. It has been estimated that as many as 25-50% of those over age 65 may have some symptoms of depression.
Read more:
Autism
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
symptoms of depression
Depression: Diagnosis and Treatment
Major depressive disorder
Anxiety disorders
postpartum depression
Written and revised by
Andrey Nailor, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
health.am provides general information, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified health professional about your own health.
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