An elderly person's physical health needs careful attention. Review by a doctor may reveal ways to reduce chronic pain if present, including methods such as physical therapy or massage. And those suffering depression due to caring for a spouse with dementia often get relief by joining groups such as the Alzheimer's Association, which provide education and support. If depressive symptoms are more serious, professional attention may be necessary. Counseling may help a person cope with loss, family conflict, or health problems.
Antidepressant medications are also a mainstay of treatment for significant depression.
Modern antidepressants are much safer and have fewer troublesome side effects than older ones. These medications, once shunned except in extreme cases, often produce dramatic improvement and welcome relief from suffering. Perhaps most importantly, today's primary care doctors are much more alert to depression than in past years, and many of them know how to use antidepressants wisely. In more serious cases, they may refer elderly patients to a psychiatrist for evaluation and treatment. Either way, the important thing is for depressed older patients to get the attention that they need.