I had a wonderful conversation with a friend the other day. Barbara is a sweet and loving human being. She is known for her love of baking. And the fact that she generously shares her cookies and other baked goods with all those she cares for. Barbara seems like she is a very happy person. She is in her 70's, still happily married, and very talented. She has written poetry and painted. Clearly someone connected to life. And someone who is fulfilled.
However, we were talking about depression in older adults. We discussed how as you age, your physical health may be problematic. And your role in life changes, as you retire. I could relate to this conversation. Especially the part about physical issues. I genuinely have health problems. Apart from my depression. Sometimes those issues impact me. Heavily. And it does create opportunity for my depression to flare up.
In addition, older adults frequently experience isolation. As health becomes problematic, many older adults become homebound. Maintaining supportive relationships is difficult. And don't forget...as we age, we lose more friends and family to death. Depression can be an issue for older folks. I truly know this. I am quickly becoming one. So, what is the answer? I think that what I'm about to say will be familiar if you have read this blog.
The tools that we have discussed previously are just as important as we age. Keeping oneself busy with activities that we are interested in, treating symptoms of mental illness medically, maintaining and using a support system are part of it. I think exercise and diet are also important. People who are connected to life are in a better position to fight the depression that may come up as we age. We frequently need extra support to accomplish this due to financial issues and lack of mobility, That may mean needing theraeuputic services and case management.
Generally, here is the answer: Older adults are worthwhile. It is important to recognize the risk factors that may lead to depression. Especially the risk factors that are normal as we age. Finally, I will be looking at my friend Barbara as a terrific role-model. You think it's too late for me to learn how to bake?? Lol!
However, we were talking about depression in older adults. We discussed how as you age, your physical health may be problematic. And your role in life changes, as you retire. I could relate to this conversation. Especially the part about physical issues. I genuinely have health problems. Apart from my depression. Sometimes those issues impact me. Heavily. And it does create opportunity for my depression to flare up.
In addition, older adults frequently experience isolation. As health becomes problematic, many older adults become homebound. Maintaining supportive relationships is difficult. And don't forget...as we age, we lose more friends and family to death. Depression can be an issue for older folks. I truly know this. I am quickly becoming one. So, what is the answer? I think that what I'm about to say will be familiar if you have read this blog.
The tools that we have discussed previously are just as important as we age. Keeping oneself busy with activities that we are interested in, treating symptoms of mental illness medically, maintaining and using a support system are part of it. I think exercise and diet are also important. People who are connected to life are in a better position to fight the depression that may come up as we age. We frequently need extra support to accomplish this due to financial issues and lack of mobility, That may mean needing theraeuputic services and case management.
Generally, here is the answer: Older adults are worthwhile. It is important to recognize the risk factors that may lead to depression. Especially the risk factors that are normal as we age. Finally, I will be looking at my friend Barbara as a terrific role-model. You think it's too late for me to learn how to bake?? Lol!
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