It is found in 20 percent of persons with Alzheimer's disease, in up to 50 percent of Alzheimer caregivers, and in 15 percent of adults over age 65. Sadly, most people never get help for this treatable illness. American Psychiatric Association Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Indicators of depression in caregivers Stress, anger, guilt, and grief related to caregiving can lead to depression.
Caregivers can experience grief at any point in the disease process.
You should seek help if the grieving process is so prolonged that it affects both physical and mental well-being. If symptoms of depression are present, it is important for you to obtain a complete medical evaluation to rule out any other physical causes. Medications or an unrecognized disorder may cause depression. If there are no other underlying causes, consult a psychiatrist to obtain a diagnosis. Geriatric psychiatrists specialize in recognizing and treating depression in older adults.