Quality Home Care Options May be a Perfect Solution for Seniors with Depression

A professional home care agency can help seniors in Newington, CT, reduce the risks of developing clinical depression through quality companionship

Depression is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions in the world. It affects all age groups and can develop at any point in life. This mental health problem is especially present among the senior population. As older adults cope with various life-altering events, such as the onset of an illness, loss of a spouse or family member, relocation to another home or decline of independence, it is easy for depression to creep up on them. To make matters worse, seniors are often reluctant to talk about their feelings, so they keep their emotional and mental troubles to themselves. Additionally, many of them do not wish to be a burden to their families, so they again remain silent.

For all these reasons, geriatric depression is one of the most under-recognized and dangerous mental disorders in seniors. It is estimated that over 6 million US seniors age 65 and older suffer from clinical depression. Out of those 6 million, less than 10 percent of older adults sought help and are receiving treatment for it.

However common it may be, depression is certainly not a normal part of aging. Though seniors may have to go through a grieving process or can occasionally feel moody, sad, or anxious, persistent symptoms of depression can take a toll on one's independence and lead to various health problems.

Seniors who often feel lonely and isolated are more likely to develop clinical depression. Quality home care options may help seniors stay active, boost social interaction and overcome some of the problems commonly associated with living alone.

Additionally, many home care options also include care for seniors with chronic conditions, mobility issues, and care during the post-hospital recovery.

How Can Home Care Options Reduce the Risks of Senior Depression?

There are many home care options available to older adults who wish to remain living independently in their home while receiving appropriate care that will enable them to maintain their accustomed routine. While relocation to a nursing home or a hospital facility may in fact trigger depression, the ability to age in place can be especially beneficial to seniors struggling with the mental condition.

Receiving compassionate care from a loving caregiver can provide seniors with much-needed companionship and support, make them feel valued, and help restore a sense of purpose. A professional caregiver will also assist with a number of daily activities such as meal preparation, grocery shopping, running errands, provide medication reminders, and help with personal hygiene. Although these are all important tasks in maintaining one's quality of living, the most important thing is that seniors will have someone to talk to, someone who will understand them whenever they are feeling down and someone to help them feel better about themselves.

Visiting Angels of Newington, CT, is a leading provider of non-medical in-home care services for seniors. Our office serves Hartford County, Waterbury, and Springfield, MA. To learn more about the in-home living assistance services provided by our staff of compassionate caregivers, please call our Newington office at (860) 215-2391 or contact us for more information.