Senior Living
Seniors Face High Rate of Depression
By
Sep 20, 2005, 21:49

(NUI) - Depression affects more than 6 million Americans over age 65, but it is not a normal part of aging. Common symptoms include a persistent sad mood, loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed, and feelings of worthlessness.

Depression in the elderly may be triggered by certain stresses, such as a medical illness, a change in residence or grief following the loss of a loved one.

Fortunately, depression is a highly treatable illness. In fact, when properly diagnosed and treated, more than 80 percent of people suffering from depression recover and return to their normal lives. In addition, the successful treatment of depression lowers the risk of suicide, which is prevalent among the elderly population.

Many treatment options are available for people with depression. They include medication, psychotherapy or a combination of these two methods.

Antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most common forms of treatment for depression. Lexapro, the newest and fastest-growing SSRI, was recently shown, in a new study involving more than 700 patients ages 60 and older, to be safe, effective and well tolerated in elderly patients.

Another reason doctors consider Lexapro a good option for depressed elderly patients is because it has a low risk of drug interactions, which is particularly important because many elderly patients take multiple medications.

The most common side effects associated with Lexapro include nausea, insomnia, ejaculation disorder, somnolence, increased sweating and fatigue.

For more information about depression and treatment, visit www.lexapro.com.

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