Unlike cancer or diabetes where the symptoms are often manifested physically, depression is an illness that works on the inside without an obvious manifestation on the outside. For one, failure to recognize it is due to unawareness of its cause and effects and also because it is often associated with aging.

As we link it with aging, we welcome the idea that it is a normal part of an individual’s life. Thinking that everyone goes through the downside and there really is no need to give serious attention to it. With this in mind, we tend to ignore the signs given by the patient. Thus we relate sudden mood swings with grumpiness and other illnesses such as Parkinson’s disease.

But we all should know that there is a big difference between depression and loneliness. Being gloomy at times is very normal but when this feeling hinders an elderly to function well on a daily basis, then there is a need to seek for the help of your doctor.

There are several causes of depression and it is not merely about being sixty. Their painful experiences, sudden changes in the life style and environment, other health problems, hormonal disorders and side effects of prescription medication are the among the major factors that contribute to the disease.

Though symptoms are hard to recognize, every family members must be very observant of the changes in behavior that is often associated with the big D. Among them are being extremely sad, lack of energy, sleeping and eating disorder, lack of interest even in pleasurable activities, crying most of the time, failure to deal with other people and suicide attempts.

There are ways to help cure the disease. Depending on the severity of the case, one can either use medications, psychotherapy, or electroconvulsive therapy. Though all these three are proven to help one patient to another, there are also practical ways to help eliminate it.

As with everyone else, it is necessary to make the elderly feel that no matter what happens they are never alone. Be with them as they face major changes in their lives such as death in the family or of a friend, retirement or sickness. As much as possible, constantly find time to visit and be with them. Have special diet that is suited for their physical needs. These steps will surely help them as they go through the hardship of depression— without any side effects.

But all these will not be possible if the problem it self will not be recognized and acknowledged. Anyone in your family can suffer from it and there is no reason to be ashamed. The first step to solve a problem is to accept it and simply deal with it.