While depression is something that can affect anyone at almost any time in their life, many elderly people are more likely to deal with depression as they age. And while you might think this is just something that happens to people as they get older, get sicker, and end up moving into assisted living facilities, depression is never something that you just have to accept and live with. So to help you know how to support any elderly people that you have in your life, here are three ways to help your elderly loved ones right off depression. 

Know The Depression In Older Adults Isn’t Untreatable

As was mentioned above, depression in older adults isn’t something that just happens and should be accepted as it is. If you think that your elderly loved one is experiencing depression, there are plenty of things that you can do to help them, including speaking with their doctor about their medical options. 

It can also be helpful to understand that depression in older adults won’t always present itself as being sad. Feeling excessively tired, not having energy to do things they once loved, wanting to isolate themselves from others, and more can all be signs of depression in older adults. So if you notice any of these things, or other behaviors that seem out of the ordinary, don’t hesitate to talk to them about it and get their doctor involved.  

Help Them Find Ways To Be Physically And Socially Active

Something that can help to reduce the chances of depression coming on to older adults, since depression is more likely to happen as a result of changes in health, is to find ways to keep them physically and socially active. 

When older adults are able to maintain their physical health and activity, they can continue to find meaning in their life. And when older adults have people in their social circle that they care about and that care about them, it’s easier for them to seek the happy things in life and feel fulfilled. 

Do Things That Are Meaningful To Them

It’s not only physical health and a social life that can help older people find meaning in their lives. Things like having hobbies or interests can also help them to live meaningfully. Especially if their hobby allows them to help other people or facilitate happiness for those around them, participating in these hobbies can be very helpful for fighting off depression and give them some kind of purpose outside of themselves. 

If you have a loved one that is getting older and you’re beginning to worry about their chances of developing depression based on the changes in their life, consider using the tips mentioned above to help them find ways to fight this off.