4 Ways To Stave Off Depression in Aging Adults

Depression is one of the most common concerns among aging adults. Around 7 million seniors are diagnosed and treated for depression every year, but it can be reduced by some healthy lifestyle changes. Experts at Home Care Vancouver share a few simple ways to help your elderly loved ones combat depression.

1. Encourage Regular Activity

Engaging in physical activity regularly is one of the effective means of reducing depression. Encourage your loved one to go for short walks each day to enhance mood by releasing endorphins (the feel-good hormone) and relieving stress. You should also go to partner him or her with walks and to offer motivation.
Regular mental activity also helps in fighting depression. Draw your loved one into a purposeful and brainstorming conversation while walking, do puzzles, or look at look at old photos together to remember the happy moments of life and to provide his or her brain a workout to eliminate the feelings of depression.

2. Monitor Symptoms

While feelings of sadness are typically what everyone imagines about depression, most signs are less noticeable. Normally, the depressive behaviors include withdrawal from people, moodiness, outbursts, lack of interest in favorite activities, frustration, and sudden changes in sleep or eating patterns. If your loved one shows two or more of these signs, find out the reasons for depression and try to make them happy. In case of extreme depression, talk with a doctor for psychological screening.

3. Be Patient and Motivate

Things can get challenging when helping a loved one fight depression. He or she may refuse your help, get isolated, or show anger, but you must stay patient, calm, and collected and be supportive. You must understand that such bouts of unusual aggressive behaviors can manifest a health condition.

4. Educate Yourself on Depression

Depression is a confusing and complex disorder that often tends to negatively influence many aspects of your loved one’s life. The better you educate yourself and understand it, the more you can do to help your loved one manage the symptoms. Talk with his or her doctor for effective ways to cope with depression.
Along with these tips, spending time with your loved one is an unmatched factor that can significantly reduce negative feelings and depression. If you cannot care for your loved one due to a busy work routine, consider hiring a professional in-home caregiver. Vancouver families should opt for a trusted senior care agency in their area. A caregiver can ensure your loved one stays safe and healthy while aging in the comfort of home.