The prevalence of depression in the elderly over 60 years old can reach 7%- 10%. Among the elderly suffering from diseases such as hypertension, coronary heart disease, diabetes and even cancer, the incidence of depression is as high as 50%.
In addition, Chongqing Cuncaoxin psychological experts suggest that compared with older men, older women suffer from a higher proportion of depression, which should arouse everyone's vigilance.
"Depression in the elderly is actually a common mental illness, but at present, whether it is the elderly themselves or the society, the ability to identify depression in the elderly is still relatively low." According to experts, according to the statistics of the World Health Organization, the prevalence of depression in the elderly over 60 years old is 7%- 10%, and the incidence of depression can be as high as 50% among people with physical diseases such as hypertension, coronary heart disease, diabetes and even cancer.
Cultivating hobbies helps to prevent depression.
In order to prevent depression in the elderly, experts suggest that the elderly should actively cultivate their hobbies and expand their social circle. "It's good to go out for tea and chat with friends, play Tai Ji Chuan, enrich your life and associate with optimistic elderly people."
In addition, families should pay more attention to the elderly and chat with them. "Even if the old people nag, listen patiently and take them out to play on weekends." He believes that society should also pay more attention to and respect the elderly, "let them participate in public welfare activities and find their own value again."
Older women are more likely to suffer from depression.
"The causes of depression in the elderly mainly include three aspects: physiology, society and heredity." Experts said that in physiology, with the increase of age, the brain function of the elderly began to deteriorate, and the concentration of three neurotransmitters in the brain: 5- hydroxytryptamine, norepinephrine and dopamine decreased, which easily led to depression.
In terms of social factors, the elderly are unemployed after retirement, their income is reduced, and their social interaction is reduced. However, their children are often too busy to communicate with their parents. If the spouse dies, the elderly will become more lonely. In addition, if someone in the immediate family of the elderly suffers from anxiety, depression or schizophrenia, then the probability of senile depression will be higher than that of normal people.
"Older women are particularly prone to depression," said Chongqing psychologist Cun Caoxin. The incidence of elderly men and women can reach 2: 1, or even 3: 1. "In addition, some elderly people who are relatively introverted, strong and pursue perfection in everything are also more likely to suffer from senile depression."