We're all aware of it. We hear about it, we take classes about it, but we forget to do anything about it. Depression. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that nearly 13.5% of older adults receiving some kind of residential or home health care are depressed. In contrast, only 1% of older adults in society are depressed. What does this mean? People who live in our facilities are at a higher risk of becoming depressed. It means that we have our work cut out for us. What do we do?
Clinical depression can set in over time do to biological changes in the brain. Look for weight loss, talk of being worthless, extreme changes in appetite, or talk of dying for starters. When it does seem like depression then the best advice is to seek medical attention.
Before depression sets in we can help prevent "the blues" by considering these ideas:
- Help residents feel needed or that they have a purpose.
- Look them in the eye and tell them why they are important to you.
- Share a special memory with them.
- Seek their advice or opinion on holiday plans
- Smile
Maybe you and your staff have some additional good ideas to share. Join us on Facebook and leave your comments or ideas.
Good information on Depression HERE.
