Detecting depression in the elderly may be complicated by several factors. Often the symptoms of depression such as fatigue , loss of appetite , and sleeping difficulties are associated with the aging process or a medical condition rather than with depression. Contributing factors include the loss of a spouse or close friends, chronic pain and illness, difficulty with mobility, frustration with memory loss , difficulty adapting to changing circumstances such as moving from a home to a retirement facility, or changes within the family.
Depression can also be a sign of a medical problem.
It may be complicated by brain disorders associated with the aging process such as Alzheimer's disease or organic brain syndrome . Risk factors are related to contributing factors. Depression in the elderly is a widespread problem. Prevention is related to the contributing factors. Social supports the help deal with losses, mobility changes, and so on can be helpful.