Depression in Later Life: Often Overlooked, Frequently Misunderstood
Depression affects millions of older adults across the United States. But because it often presents differently than it does in younger people, it frequently goes undiagnosed or is mistaken for other age-related issues such as cognitive decline, grief, or physical illness.
At Hanley Center, we specialize in treating older adults with substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, and primary mental health challenges, including depression. Through our Older Adult Program and Residential Mental Health Program, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care that meets the unique needs of seniors.
Why Depression in Older Adults Is Often Missed
- Irritability or apathy rather than sadness
- Fatigue and slowed speech mistaken for aging
- Physical aches and pains with no medical explanation
- Cognitive changes such as forgetfulness or confusion
- Withdrawal from social activities or hobbies
- Poor appetite or weight loss
These symptoms may be attributed to other chronic conditions or life changes like retirement, bereavement, or isolation—masking the underlying mental health issue.
Depression vs. Dementia: Knowing the Difference
Depression in older adults can mimic the symptoms of dementia. This condition, often called pseudodementia, includes forgetfulness, confusion, and slowed mental functioning—but it’s treatable when the root cause (depression) is addressed.
Unlike Alzheimer’s or other dementias, pseudodementia can improve with therapy, medication, and supportive care. However, without proper diagnosis, individuals may never receive the help they need.
Contributing Factors: Why Seniors Are at Risk
- Loss of a spouse, partner, or peers
- Chronic health conditions or pain
- Reduced independence
- Social isolation or loneliness
- Loss of purpose after retirement
- Financial stress or housing insecurity
Hanley Center’s Older Adult and Residential Mental Health Programs
At Hanley Center, we recognize the specialized needs of older adults, and we’ve created a dedicated program to address them. Our approach combines:
- Age-specific therapeutic groups
- Medical and psychiatric care tailored to senior health
- Medication management
- Cognitive assessments
- Grief counseling and family therapy
- Holistic and trauma-informed care
Our Residential Mental Health Program provides a safe, structured, eight-bed environment with high staff-to-patient ratios—ideal for individuals facing primary mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, or trauma-related disorders.
When Depression Leads to Substance Use
Depression is one of the leading risk factors for late-onset substance use disorders in older adults. Seniors may self-medicate with alcohol, sedatives, or pain medications, which can spiral into addiction. Hanley Center offers dual-diagnosis care that addresses both depression and substance use simultaneously.
Depression Is Treatable—At Any Age
If you or someone you love is showing signs of depression in later life, don’t wait. With the right treatment and support, older adults can experience healing, renewed purpose, and a higher quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What are the signs of depression in older adults?
- Common signs include fatigue, irritability, forgetfulness, unexplained pain, poor sleep, and withdrawal from daily activities.
- How is depression different from dementia?
- While both can affect memory and thinking, depression-related cognitive issues are often reversible with treatment.
- Is depression in older adults treatable?
- Yes. Therapy, medication, and supportive care can significantly improve quality of life—even in advanced age.
- Does Hanley Center offer age-specific care for seniors with depression?
- Yes. Hanley Center’s Older Adult Program is one of the few in the nation offering specialized care for seniors.
- What if my loved one is struggling with both depression and addiction?
- Hanley Center provides integrated dual-diagnosis treatment for co-occurring conditions.
