After retiring, the elderly feel that various aspects of life are not as good as before because of having sudden free time, resulting in a drastic psychological gap. They are prone to negative emotions such as feelings of sadness and anxiety, and in severe cases, may develop into geriatric depression. This is also why the proportion of elderly people suffering from depression is much higher than that of younger people. Some individuals with more outgoing personalities may experience gradual changes in their mental state as they age, making them more susceptible to depression. It’s important to note that once someone develops depression, the consequences can be extremely severe, potentially even life-threatening. So, how can the elderly keep a distance from depression?
To prevent geriatric depression, the following measures can be taken:
1. Exercise Prevention
The elderly should participate in group activities more frequently since many of them experience depression due to loneliness. Engaging in group activities can help alleviate this condition, and such activities play a significant role in physical exercise, relaxation, and relief from depression.
2. Dietary Prevention
Elderly individuals with lower-than-normal serum cholesterol levels are at a significantly increased risk of developing depression symptoms. This risk becomes more pronounced with age. It’s well known that dietary cholesterol levels determine serum cholesterol levels. Therefore, preventing geriatric depression can also start with dietary adjustments, ensuring a balance between meat and vegetables for adequate nutrition.
3. Psychological Prevention
What the elderly need most is care and comfort from their children, especially those suffering from geriatric depression. They require support from family members to help them find the courage to lead a happy life and overcome difficulties. Therefore, as adult children, it is essential to communicate with elderly family members regularly, provide them with emotional support, as this has a greater impact in preventing geriatric depression than anything else.
