Depression in Older adults Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Depression in Older adults - Essay Example A variety of tools or methods that are used to assess depression within older adult will also be presented and discussed. Some of the relevant evidenced-based nursing strategies that have been utilized to address depression within the older adult population will also be presented and discussed. The last section will comprise the summary of key points that will be discussed. Depression in older adult population has generated a massive attention. The attention has arisen due to the underlying effects in the older adult population. Although depression is prevalent in the age group, it is not a formal part of aging (Department of Health and Human Services, 2011). Rather, it is a medical problem tat affects many older adults, and it is possible to eliminate it through proper treatment. However, the problem needs to attract proper attention due to lack of recognition and effective treatment in older adults. On the other hand, it is essential to describe some of the common types of depression affecting older adult’s population. There are three common types of depression. They include major depression, minor depression, and dysthymia (Department of Health and Human Services, 2011). The major depression is characterized by lack of proper sleep, inability to eat, and lacks enjoyment in pleasurable activities (Department of Health and Human Services, 2011) . The main symptoms of depression include depressed mood, loss of interest, disturbed sleep, weight loss, fatigue, and restlessness. On the other hand, minor depression does not have severe symptoms as other depression. It is usually characterized by depressed mood and loss of interest (Department of Health and Human Services, 2011). The other type of common depression is dysthymia and is characterized by long-term, chronic symptoms that act as a hindrance to normal adult functions (Department of Health and Human Services, 2011). The condition is characterized by persistent negative perspective and low mood. The