Geriatric Depression Prevention: Limit the time you spend alone and try to connect with others

Geriatric Depression - How to prevent?

If you are depressed, you may not feel like doing anything or seeing anybody. But isolation only makes depression worse, so you should limit the time you spend alone and try to connect with others.

Engage in meaningful social activities.

Join a senior activity group; it can help to reduce feelings of isolation.

Engage in gentle physical exercise (e.g. walking, yoga, tai chi).

Group exercise programs prevent isolation and functional decline.

Get some sunshine.

Don’t just stay at home all the time. Getting outside in the sun can brighten the mood.

Find a new hobby or interest.

Consider taking care of a pet. They can provide great companionship for the elderly and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Eat a well-balanced diet

Eating healthy is important for mental health. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables and healthy protein and limit highly processed foods. A healthy, well-balanced diet can help you feel more energetic and think clearly.

Get enough sleep

Poor sleep can make depression worse. A better quality of sleep can be achieved by avoiding alcohol and caffeine, keeping a regular sleep-wake schedule and making sure your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool.

Take a simple screening test for symptoms of depression on the Health Buddy app senior wellness module and learn some strategies to cope with early symptoms.

Treatment is available for depression. The two main forms of treatments include medication and talking therapy. So, talk to your doctor about your concerns and seek help.