While it’s true that everyone experiences sadness from time to time, we tend to think that it’s normal to be depressed later in life. Depression in the elderly could result from living with less income, the onset of physical symptoms or the loss of someone dear. Regardless, less than one out of every six elderly people actually experiences noticeable symptoms of depression. And less than one person in 30 is so depressed that he or she must visit a doctor for treatment.

Nevertheless, the holidays can be a tough time for many people, especially if they are missing loved ones. In the days and weeks ahead, watch for these symptoms of depression in older friends and family members.

• Feelings of sadness and/or depression that are more severe than normal.
• Loss of interest in life and an inability to enjoy the things that usually provide pleasure.
• Unusual fatigue or tiredness to the point that even the simplest tasks seem overwhelming.
• Loss of appetite and often a loss of weight as well.
• Inner feelings of restlessness, making it hard to rest or relax properly.
• A desire to withdraw from people, or irritability around other people.
• Difficulty sleeping, often waking very early in the morning and unable to return to sleep.
• Lack of confidence, often coupled with feelings of uselessness.
• Guilt or bad feelings that might magnify incidents from the past.
• Suicidal thoughts, which should be taken seriously.

Remember that it may be more difficult to detect depression in older people simply because the physical symptoms can resemble other conditions. And, older people typically don’t complain about being depressed. Instead they might express distress or become occupied with bodily symptoms. Unfortunately, many older people worry that they’re becoming a senile; consequently, they might try to mask the signs of depression.

What You Can Do If You’re Feeling Depressed

• Ask for help. Remember that it’s not normal to feel depressed just because you’re getting older.
• Get out of the house whenever possible, especially when neighbors and friends offer to take you somewhere. Staying at home can aggravate joint problems because of the lack of movement.
• Eat properly. People with depression often lose weight and eat a poor diet.
• Remind yourself that you are not ill and that you’re not letting other people down. The vast majority of people with depression do eventually feel better.
• Tell someone if you are feeling so low that you think about ending it all.
• Accept professional help if a physician or family member suggests it.
• Avoid keeping all your feelings to yourself. This may cause you to worry repeatedly and pointlessly about the same things.