Depression in Elderly (Geriatric Depression)
Emotional HealthLate-life mood disorder often masked by unexplained physical pain and memory complaints.
Geriatric depression frequently presents with body aches, fatigue, and memory fog (pseudodementia) rather than typical sadness. With specialized care, emotional vitality can be completely restored.
- Unexplained joint, stomach, or chest pain unresponsive to routine medical care
- Apathy, social isolation, and loss of interest in family or hobbies
- Perceived memory loss, slowed speech, and appetite changes
- Vascular brain changes (Vascular Depression)
- Spousal bereavement, retirement, or chronic illness
- Side effects of certain antihypertensives or cardiac medications
- Expressing feeling like a "burden to family" or expressing a wish to stop living
- Refusing essential food, water, or daily medical prescriptions
- Low-dose, cardiac-safe geriatric antidepressants (SSRIs/SNRIs)
- Supportive psychotherapy & reminiscence counseling
- Behavioral activation & family guidance