Depression in People with Dementia: What It Looks Like and What You Can Do

Not sure if your loved one with dementia is experiencing depression? Want to help a senior in your life with dementia who may be suffering from depression? Wondering what you can do about depression in someone with dementia?

Losing grip on your mental sharpness and memories can be enough to make anyone feel depressed. When depression becomes a serious issue in someone with dementia, it’s important to act fast before it takes a serious toll. Read on to learn more about the symptoms and how to combat depression in people with dementia. 

Symptoms:

Because there may be other things going on with their health, mood, and behavior, it can be difficult to detect depression in someone with dementia. You can be on the lookout for serious symptoms like social withdrawal and isolation, loss of appetite, fatigue, and expressions of hopelessness or despair. 

Treatment:

Addressing depression in people with dementia can include group or one-on-one therapy or chemical treatment. There are other things you can do on a daily basis to help keep depression at bay! Regular activity—mental, physical, and social—can significantly decrease depression. Try and take walks, play games, and even volunteer on a regular schedule to make a real difference in the life of someone with dementia and depression. 

Depression is a serious topic, and if you suspect someone is suffering, you should speak to a doctor or caretaker immediately. If you have more questions about decreasing depression in someone with dementia or about memory care in Ann Arbor, give us a call today. At Hillside Terrace Senior Living, our family shares life with yours.