Depression affects more than 6.5 million of the 35 million Americans aged 65 years or older. A majority of older adults also have at least one medical illness placing them at risk for depression. This leads to worse health outcomes.
In older adults, depression may present with memory problems, sleep and appetite changes, slowed movements, and even delusions. Medical problems such as chemical, thyroid or blood count abnormalities, and vitamin deficiencies, can worsen these symptoms.
Older adults may also be grieving the loss of a loved one or going thru other transitions that may trigger depression. It is important to understand the biological and psychological aspects of depression in determining treatment.
Read More:
https://nihseniorhealth.gov/depression/aboutdepression/01.html
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/older-adults-and-depression/index.shtml
Moak, Gary. Beat Depression to Stay Healthy and Live Longer: A Guide for Older Adults and Their Families, Rowman and Littlefield, 2016.