Does Depression Cause Memory Loss in Seniors?
Many of us are deeply concerned for our mental health during our younger years, but how do we view depression in seniors? Senior mental health is one of the most important topics when it comes to cognitive changes in aging. According to the National Council on Aging, about 5% of older adults are battling depression
Davie, Florida, is a great community to spend your retirement if you're focusing on your mental health. Our small community puts relaxation and soothing downtime at a priority above all else to keep your mental health boosted.
But does depression cause memory loss in seniors, and if so, how can we battle the condition? If you're curious about depression in seniors, we're here to help. Read on for a quick overview of aging and memory with depression.
Depression and Memory Loss
Depression and memory loss are difficult topics to tackle, especially when it comes to seniors. That's because there's a heavy overlap between the many conditions that can cause memory loss in seniors. As such, it's important to understand more about both before we can discuss emotional wellness.
What is Depression?
To start, what is depression, and how does it impact seniors? It's important to know that depression isn't a specific condition. Instead, depression is a blanket term for several different conditions that fit under the same category.
There are multiple types of depression that can impact individuals in different ways. The three most common types are:
- Major Depressive Disorder
- Seasonal Depression
- Persistent Depressive Disorder
These three types of depression are the most likely to appear in seniors, with Major Depressive Disorder - or MDD - being the most common. But how does that impact memory loss?
Does Depression Cause Memory Loss?
Depression has long-standing links to memory loss and is known to impact cognitive function. According to the health-focused site Healthline, depression is mostly associated with short-term memory loss.
Short-term memory loss is the type of memory that focuses on your immediate circumstances. In simplified terms, we use short-term memory to recall details of current conversations, what we're actively engaged with, and to stay on task.
It's crucial to understand that depression has no link to long-term memory as we know it. Long-term memory is what we use to recall things like childhood memories, facts about our loved ones, and topics we're knowledgeable on.
Another type of memory that you'll encounter is procedural memory. Procedural memory is what we use for motor skills. These include the ability to use our hands, to walk, and other basic everyday tasks.
In short, depression impacts our short-term memory while leaving our other types of memory alone. However, depression can cause or worsen other conditions, like dementia, that will impact these other types of memory.
Other Symptoms of Depression
Unfortunately, depression doesn't restrict itself to bothering your memory. There are many other cognitive symptoms that are worsened by the physical symptoms of depression. Some of the many symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- A loss of existing interest in activities, hobbies, and passions
- Feeling restless or low-energy
- Mood swings and significant irritability
- A loss of appetite or rapid shifts in one's weight
- Difficulties with sleeping and general restlessness
- Inexplicable pains, soreness, and aches
- Feelings of sorrow, anxiety, and numbness
Some of these may throw up a bit of a red flag. For example, difficulties sleeping, headaches, and constant fatigue are already things many seniors deal with.
As such, it's worryingly common for seniors to overlook signs of depression as their usual everyday tribulations. We strongly recommend that you spend some time with a medical professional to discuss your emotional wellness
Ways to Treat Depression
Depression has been with humanity for as long as there have been humans, which means we've found plenty of ways to alleviate symptoms.
One important factor to remember is that depression is a medical condition and not a temporary state of mind. You should always prioritize speaking with your doctor to ensure you're getting the best results possible.
Focusing on Socialization
One of the best ways to improve your mental health is to focus on socializing with your peers. Many communities focus on bringing people together to encourage such connections.
Here at Oakmonte Village of Davie, we focus on providing you with a lifestyle full of stimulating activities and various social events. We're dedicated to ensuring you're able to keep your social life as active and healthy as possible.
Does socializing truly help? While many people doubt the power of socializing, it's long been considered one of the best ways to alleviate depression symptoms.
According to the National Institute on Aging, social isolation negatively impacts the physical and mental health of older adults. Those with cognitive impairments that may impact aging and memory are particularly vulnerable.
Reconnecting With Loved Ones
As we age, many of us will experience the loss of friends and loved ones. This isn't always due to the passing of time; many people simply lose contact with the people they love.
If you're worried about depression in seniors, you can often alleviate such a condition by reconnecting with your loved ones. Take the time to pick up the phone or send a letter to let the people you love know you're still thinking of them.
Discovering New Skills and Hobbies
Another crucial way to keep your mind healthy is to continue learning in your later years. You can still work on learning new languages, picking up new books, and more.
At Oakmonte Village of Davie, we provide plenty of events that help to focus on learning and personal growth. Keep your eye on the calendar to see what we have planned!
Emotional Wellness in Seniors
Does depression cause memory loss? Depression can affect short-term memory and may also impact other cognitive functions. We strongly recommend speaking to a medical professional if you suspect you're showing signs of depression.
At Oakmonte Village of Davie, we're dedicated to compassion, commitment, and care of our residents. Whether you fell in love with our beach entry heated pools and cabanas or the beautiful South Florida weather, we're happy to provide you with a community you can love. Contact us today to see how we can help you make the most of your golden years.