Expert Panel Studies Depression’s Disproportionately Heavy Toll on the Elderly

WASHINGTON — Depression is a serious, potentially fatal medical illness, and disproportionately so for America’s older population, concluded a leading panel of experts examining mood disorders in late life.

"Depression is widespread in the older population, however, contrary to popular belief, it is not a normal part of aging" said Charles F. Reynolds, III, M.D., Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Dr. Reynolds led a conference on the unmet needs in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders in late life that met in Washington, D.C., October 9th and 10th. The symposium was convened by the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (formerly National Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association) (DBSA), the nation’s largest patient-directed, illness-specific organization.

There are strong connections between depression and other illnesses that affect the elderly, such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, coronary artery disease, diabetes and cerebrovascular disease. Whether it occurs after a heart attack or a stroke, and it is common after both, depression amplifies disability and hastens an early death.

Depression can make other illnesses harder to treat and recovery is often more prolonged and difficult. Treating these illnesses without also treating an accompanying depression misses an important, sometimes life saving, clinical step.

Untreated depression kills no less surely than heart attack or stroke. The tragedy is that depression is treatable. Startlingly, only a small percentage of the elderly are treated for their depression.

Statistics reinforce just how prevalent depression is among older people. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 2 million Americans over age 65, have a diagnosable depressive illness.

"We need to do more to treat depression because untreated, it’s the leading cause of suicide in the US," said Reynolds. "Unbelievably, research shows that the rate of suicide among the elderly – especially men – are up to double that of the general population."

There is a strong stigma associated with depression among this age group. "Older Americans often view depression as a personality defect or a character weakness rather than a real medical illness": stated Lydia Lewis, Executive Director of the National Depressive and Manic-Depressive Association. "That misperception can literally kill."

The elderly and those who care for and about them should watch for the signs of depression, educate themselves about the illness and discuss signs and symptoms with the patient’s primary care physician.

Symptoms of depression include: prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells; significant changes in appetite or sleep patterns; feelings of irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety, pessimism or indifference; loss of energy, persistent tiredness; feelings of guilt or worthlessness; inability to concentrate and indecisiveness; inability to take pleasure in former interests; social withdraw; unexplained aches and pains; and recurring thoughts of death and suicide.

Depression is not a natural part of aging. With proper diagnosis and treatment, quality of life can significantly improve. DBSA urges the elderly to seek proper care. In addition to medical treatment and talk therapy, there are lifestyle changes that can lead to more productive lives. DBSA offers a variety of materials, most free of charge, to help improve quality of life, regardless of age.