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Are They Really The Golden Years?

According to Chautauqua County census figures, one in every five people in this county is age 65 or older. This is even higher than the national tally.

With so many senior citizens living among us, it is beneficial to understand the topic of depression issues at this stage of life. As a mental health therapist, I have counseled with many older adults who were dealing with an array of distressing issues; and, the older I get, the more I understand and empathize with this segment of the population. Did you know that men 85 and older have one of the highest suicide rates in the country? Rates for men 75 to 84 are not far behind. Certainly, adults of all ages can face adverse situations and difficulties; but, multiple factors at later stages of life can make seniors more vulnerable to depression.

Seniors are typically more prone to experiencing a lack of social connection, medical conditions, physical disabilities and chronic pain. Seniors may be the primary caregiver for a spouse or dealing with grief issues regarding the death of a spouse or long-time friend. Older adults may feel a lack of purpose and meaning in their lives or they may have regrets or guilt for past mistakes and failures. They may have to alter their living situation for various reasons, which can result in the need to adjust to multiple changes at a stage in life when changes are typically more difficult to deal with. Seniors often experience anxiety about finances, declining health, and being a burden to their adult children.

Others find themselves raising grandchildren and wonder if they are up for the task. Other mental health and/or substance abuse issues can add another dimension of complexity to any situation. The list goes on and on, but suffice it to say that getting older presents its own set of challenges. Is it any wonder that depression is problematic for this segment of the population? Any one of these factors could lead to feelings of depression, but facing multiple situations is not uncommon for those in their “golden years”.

Signs that you or a loved one may be struggling with depression include feelings of depression that can range from a general feeling of “blah” to feeling suicidal. Feelings of dissatisfaction with life, worthlessness, hopelessness, or emptiness can also indicate depression. Depression can manifest in behaviors like social withdrawal and a loss of interest in activities you previously enjoyed. Lack of energy, and changes in appetite, sleep pattern, or hygiene are also symptoms to be alert to. Difficulty with concentration or memory, a lack of motivation, frequent irritability or nervousness can also indicate an issue with depression.

The truth is, there are many things in life we have little or no control over. But, in most situations, we do have some power, especially when it relates to our attitude and reactions to them. Concerning the topic of aging, research suggests a number of strategies that can increase happiness and foster resiliency whether you are already in your “golden years” or headed that way.

¯ Invest in your social life and strive to maintain at least one close, caring relationship as well as other casual friendships.

¯ Give of yourself and your talents through volunteering.

¯ Practice good selfcare: exercise, adequate sleep, healthy eating habits.

¯ Stimulate your mind by engaging in enjoyable hobbies, interests and activities. Keep learning and experiencing new things.

¯ Draw upon your spirituality/religious beliefs.

¯ Recognize your talents and strengths and use them to bless others (mentor a child, play piano for a seniors group, etc.).

¯ Focus on the positives of your situation and practice an attitude of gratitude.

¯ Cultivate a good sense of humor. There’s a lot of truth in the adage: “Laughter is the best medicine.”

¯ Be more aware of the beauty around you, even in ordinary things we often overlook.

These strategies are wise to implement at any stage of adulthood in preparation for aging successfully. I love this quote attributed to Sophia Loren: “There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will have defeated age.”

Life can become more challenging in a variety of ways as we grow older. Hopefully, this article has been helpful. Seeking additional support from a mental health professional is another strategy that can be beneficial in challenging times as we all move forward on this journey called life.

Patrice Bohn, LCSW-R is a mental health therapist at Family Service of the Chautauqua Region.

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