Why is depression often underdiagnosed in older adults

Why is depression often underdiagnosed in older adults

It can affect the way you feel, act, and think.Depression is less prevalent among older adults than younger adults, but merits special attention because it can have serious negative consequences, including increased burden of physical illness, impaired functioning, and risk of suicide.Person with depression cannot simply snap out of it—it is a medical condition that affects your quality of life.But, the truth is, suicide rates increase during the life course, according to the us national library of medicine, and depression is often underdiagnosed and undertreated in adults age 65 or.Among adults, 16.2% will experience depression at some point in their lives.Other symptoms may include physical pain, fatigue, memory issues, and refusal of care.

­identifying depression in the elderly (people 65 years of age and older) is easier said than done.The good news is that, in most cases, depression is treatable in older adults.Depression in older adults can.Depression is a common problem among older adults, but clinical depression is not a normal part of aging.Depression is not just having the blues or the emotions.Clinical depression is one of the most common medical illnesses in the world, but it can prove far more elusive in older people.

Clinical depression in older people is common.A lifetime's wear and tear can take its toll.Why is depression underdiagnosed in older adults?

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