What is old age depression?

Growing old refers to losing of a number of things like mobility, health, career. It is a common tendency in human beings that whenever anything is lost, there is depression. The old individuals may have to face certain difficulties like death of spouse, medical problems and many more. Thus it is quite natural at their part to be depressed. There are certain medications that can trigger depression in older persons.

There a may be a fear of death persisting in the older person. This also is enough to trigger depression. If enough grief is noticed in the older persons for any bereavement or any other major loss then there is nothing to worry about. Grief is a healthy as well as natural way of reaction. If there is no grief to major losses, then it may be problematic since it may cause depression.

An elderly person if depressed may show the following symptoms: fatigue, sadness and loss of weight. The interest in hobbies will be lost. The person will always remain isolated. One may also get addicted to alcohol or other drugs at this stage. There will be a lot of disturbances in sleeping. One will have a repeated feeling of unworthiness. Finally, the most dangerous result is that the elderly person may also try to commit suicide.