Mental health
Depression is a common mental health disorder, but it is not something that naturally happens as a result of the aging process. Thankfully most seniors do not suffer from depression. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, they estimate about five percent of older adults suffer from depression in the U.S. Rates of depression among seniors goes up to over 13 percent if they need home health care. These numbers could be higher because depression in older adults is often underdiagnosed and undertreated.
Depression is often a side effect of one or more chronic health conditions. Preventing depression often takes more than just having a healthy lifestyle to reduce the chances of developing a chronic health condition. Older adults need the type of support that encourages them to interact with family and friends to help prevent or treat depression. This can be done through a variety of community groups, religious organizations, and social clubs.
