Written by Glintcare Clinical Team
Our multidisciplinary clinical team develops and reviews educational mental health content to ensure accuracy, clarity, and alignment with current clinical practice.
Depression is not a normal part of ageing, yet it is common and frequently overlooked in older adults. Late-life depression affects approximately 7–20% of older adults and is associated with significant suffering, cognitive decline, and increased mortality.
Why Depression in Older Adults Is Missed
Symptoms in older adults are often attributed to physical illness or dementia. Older adults may be less likely to report feeling sad and more likely to complain about physical symptoms — pain, fatigue, digestive issues — that can mask depression. Social isolation and loss of loved ones are normalised as "part of getting older," delaying diagnosis.
Unique Risk Factors
- Chronic medical conditions (heart disease, diabetes, arthritis) - Cognitive decline and dementia - Bereavement and loss - Social isolation and loneliness - Caregiver burden - Medication side effects - Sleep disturbances
Recognising Depression in Older Adults
- Persistent physical complaints without clear cause - Withdrawal from social activities - Memory problems that may mimic dementia - Loss of interest in hobbies - Changes in appetite and weight - Sleep disturbances - Anxiety or agitation - Hopelessness about the future
Effective Treatments
Therapy: CBT and problem-solving therapy are effective and well-tolerated
Medication: SSRIs are safe in older adults when started at low doses
Social Connection: Group therapy and community programmes combat isolation
Physical Activity: Exercise programmes improve both mood and physical health
At Glintcare
We provide compassionate, age-appropriate mental health care for older adults. You deserve to enjoy your later years — depression is treatable at any age.
