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Maintenance ECT, which is ECT given longitudinally after the initial set of acute treatments, also helps depression in late life and helps prevent reoccurring depression. [59] If an older person requires hospitalization for their depression, ECT has been shown in multiple studies to work faster than medicine and reduce mortality associated with ...
There was a small group of 11 people who met together to talk about late-life mental health needs and the field of geriatrics. This meeting later created the American Association of Geriatric Psychology (AAGP). As time has gone on the small group has turned into a very large group of people dedicated to the well being of the aging population. [6]
Geriatrics, or geriatric medicine, [1] is a medical specialty focused on providing care for the unique health needs of the elderly. [2] The term geriatrics originates from the Greek γέρων geron meaning "old man", and ιατρός iatros meaning "healer".
Many older adults are undiagnosed or untreated for mental health conditions because symptoms like depression or anxiety are often mistaken for normal aging. Yet, mental health issues in those 65 ...
Individuals with depression often describe a slowing of thought, an inability to concentrate and make decisions, and being easily distracted. [3] In the elderly, the decreased concentration caused by a major depressive episode may present as deficits in memory. [3] This is referred to as pseudodementia and often goes away with treatment. [3]
When younger people are prejudiced against the elderly and then become old themselves, their anti-elderly prejudice turns inward, causing depression. "People with more negative age stereotypes will likely have higher rates of depression as they get older." [84] Old age depression results in the over-65 population having the highest suicide rate.
Many elderly people gradually lose functioning ability and require either additional assistance in the home or a move to an eldercare facility. [37] Their adult children often find it challenging to help their elderly parents make the right choices. [38] Assisted living is one option for the elderly who need assistance with everyday tasks.
Major depression significantly affects a person's family and personal relationships, work or school life, sleeping and eating habits, and general health. [27] Family and friends may notice agitation or lethargy. [20] Older depressed people may have cognitive symptoms of recent onset, such as forgetfulness, [28] and a more noticeable slowing of ...