When it comes to depression, many people believe it is something that only adolescents or young people experience. However, related statistical data shows that there are also significant cases of depression disorders among the elderly, which should not be underestimated.
The first onset of depression disorder in elderly individuals aged 60 and above is a common mental disorder that not only affects the quality of life and social function of elderly patients but also increases the caregiving burden on family members.
The causes of depression disorders in the elderly are complex, including genetic factors, socio-psychological factors, personality characteristics, brain structure, and pathological changes. It is often accompanied by somatic symptoms, and the two may influence each other.
The core symptoms include a low mood, where patients often experience feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and worthlessness. There is also a lack of interest in activities previously enjoyed, and a loss of pleasure.
Common clinical features include the following:
1. Hypochondria: About 1/3 of elderly individuals exhibit this as the first symptom of depression disorder, primarily with somatic symptoms such as constipation and gastrointestinal discomfort.
2. Agitation (severe anxiety and excited state): Constantly worrying about misfortunes befalling themselves or their families, insomnia at night, repeatedly reflecting on unpleasant events, and self-blame.
3. Insidiousness: Somatic symptoms can mask the symptoms of depression, such as pain syndromes, chest tightness, and general fatigue.
4. Psychomotor retardation: Most elderly individuals display feelings of gloom, slowing of thought processes, a furrowed brow, and sluggish behavior.
5. Depressive pseudodementia: This is a reversible cognitive impairment that improves with the treatment of antidepressants.
6. Suicidal tendencies: The risk of suicide among the elderly is higher than in other age groups, potentially reaching 55%. Key risk factors include loneliness, low self-esteem, feelings of guilt, persistent insomnia, and lack of family support.
7. Delusional symptoms: Occasional hallucinations may occur, such as feelings of abandonment, poverty, and victimization. Caution is required to assess for organic damage.
8. Seasonal: Elderly individuals exhibit characteristics of seasonal affective disorder, with episodes occurring in winter and relief during spring and summer.
Considering the above clinical features, it is important to pay more attention to the mental health of elderly individuals around us, to improve their quality of life through timely discovery and intervention, allowing them to enjoy their later years.
Nanjian County Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Geriatrics Department
Consultation phone: 8523512
Proofreader: Chang Jiayin
First review: Chen Tong, Shi Qiuyun
Review: Zhang Dezhen
Final review: He Wenxue
