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Depression in senior citizens is often caused by the same factors as the general public. Often times, though, the elderly experience depression as a result of their late stage in life.
Health Problems
Common health problems in older adults, ranging from hearing or memory loss to more serious conditions, often trigger depression late in life.
Medication
Many seniors take one or more prescription medications to treat common health problems late in life. Under certain circumstances, these medications are actually thought to induce depression.
Strokes
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center think it is likely that small strokes late in life cause depression by damaging portions of the brain that regulate mood.
Loneliness
Often, the elderly become socially isolated as their peers pass and children move away. This can cause loneliness, which can prompt depression in seniors.
Life Changes
Seniors often have a difficult time adapting to common changes late in life, such as difficulty getting around or moving to a retirement home. These changes are thought to contribute to depression.
Source:
University of Maryland Medical Center Overview of Elderly Depression
Lincoln University's Multidisciplinary Center on Aging Elderly Depression Information
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Late Life Depression Evaluation and Treatment Center Website
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