Depression in older adults and the elderly is often linked to
physical illness, which can increase the risk for depression. Chronic pain and
physical disability can understandably get you down. Symptoms of depression can
also occur as part of medical problems such as dementia or as a side effect of
prescription drugs.
Medical conditions can cause depression in
the elderly
It’s important to be aware that medical problems can cause
depression in older adults and the elderly, either directly or as a
psychological reaction to the illness. Any chronic medical condition,
particularly if it is painful, disabling, or life-threatening, can lead to
depression or make depression symptoms worse.
These include:
These include:
Ø stroke
Ø heart disease
Ø cancer
Ø diabetes
Ø Thyroid disorders
Ø Vitamin B12 deficiency
Ø dementia and Alzheimer’s
disease
Ø lupus
Ø multiple sclerosis
Prescription medications and depression in
the elderly
Symptoms of depression are a side effect of many commonly
prescribed drugs. You’re particularly at risk if you’re taking multiple
medications. While the mood-related side effects of prescription medication can
affect anyone, older adults are more sensitive because, as we age, our bodies
become less efficient at metabolizing and processing drugs.
Medications that can cause or worsen depression include:
Ø Blood pressure medication
(clonidine)
Ø Beta-blockers (e.g.
Lopressor, Inderal)
Ø Sleeping pills
Ø Tranquilizers (e.g.
Valium, Xanax, Halcion)
Ø Calcium-channel blockers
Ø Medication for Parkinson’s
disease
Ø Ulcer medication (e.g.
Zantac, Tagamet)
Ø Heart drugs containing
reserpine
Ø Steroids (e.g. cortisone
and prednisone)
Ø High-cholesterol drugs
(e.g. Lipitor, Mevacor, Zocor)
Ø Painkillers and arthritis
drugs
Ø Estrogens (e.g. Premarin,
Prempro)
If you feel depressed after starting a new medication, talk to
your doctor. You may be able to lower your dose or switch to another medication
that doesn’t impact your mood.
Alcohol and depression in the elderly
It can be tempting to use alcohol to deal with physical and
emotional pain as you get older. It may help you take your mind off an illness
or make you feel less lonely. Or maybe you drink at night to help you get to
sleep.
While alcohol may make you feel better in the short term, it can
cause problems over time. Alcohol makes symptoms of depression, irritability,
and anxiety worse and impairs your brain function. Alcohol also interacts in
negative ways with numerous medications, including antidepressants. And while
drinking may help you nod off, it can impair the quality of your sleep.
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