Helpful hints for dealing with persons who are depressed

Persons who are depressed require additional support and understanding. If you or your family member has a long period of being sad and blue, be certain to alert your physician. Assist them by offering a warm smile and listening attitude. Persons with a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease or a memory impairing illness and their caregivers are three times more likely to become depressed. The following guide may be helpful to you or someone you are caring for.

·Look for signs of clinical depression. Everyone gets sad and blue once in a while. When a person has a sadness that does not go away for two or more weeks, depression is indicated. Assist them by noticing signs of depression (sleep disturbance or changes in sleep pattern; unexplained or undesired weight gain or loss; crying; statements of feeling “lost”, unworthy or wishing they were dead; short tempered; lack of initiative; … and alerting your physician. Treatment prescribed by a physician may manage the depression. Important: Suicidal thoughts and statements should be taken seriously. Immediate physician assistance is needed.

·Support. Listening, touching and noticing the person will make a significant impact. Everyone likes to be noticed and valued. A kind word and a few moments of conversation can help a depressed person feel valued and recognized.

·Avoid pushing them. Do not force a person who is depressed into activities. Encourage him to engage in one on one activities and conversations while gradually working toward bigger group settings. Using positive reinforcements for every step made by the person is important.

·Understand their losses. Each person experiences losses as he or she ages. Persons with dementia may not always be able to express their sadness but they still have feelings. Be open to what they are saying so you can offer support.

Your physician can supply you with additional information on depression and treatment options.

For additional information regarding ElderWood Senior Care’s Services, please contact ElderWood Senior Care at (716)633-3900.