Depression is a mental health condition. It is a mood disorder in which feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration interfere with daily life for weeks or longer.
Depression in older adults is a widespread problem, but it is not a normal part of aging. It is often not recognized or treated.

Major depression (also known as clinical depression) is a medical illness. It is a chemical imbalance in the brain and can appear in people regardless of age, race or economic status. The illness can appear after a triggering event or for no apparent reason at all.

Depressive symptoms that occur in the older patient are similar to the symptoms in younger adults.

Signs & Symptoms
- Constant “blue” or sad mood that does not improve even with happy occurrences
- Reduced total sleep time
- Frequent waking during the night
- Frequent physical complaints (example: stomachaches, headaches, dizziness, and/or joint pain that does not respond or responds inconsistently to treatment, despite a thorough medical evaluation and therapy)
- Increased fatigue or lack of energy
- Decreased interest in usual pleasurable activities
- Withdrawal from social interaction · Hopelessness
- Thoughts of suicide
- Decreased appetite
- Guilt or preoccupation with past events
- Decreased concentration and/or increased forgetfulness
- Irritability
- Frequent tearfulness or crying without an obvious precipitating event.

A complete physical examination to rule out other problems is critical before a diagnosis of depression is made. A complete physical examination to rule out other problems is critical before a diagnosis of depression is made. Other physical diseases (Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, thyroid disorders, certain viral infections, strokes, tumors) and certain medications (steroids, hormones, blood pressure and arthritis medications) used to treat those illnesses can mimic the symptoms depression; they can cause a chemical imbalance in the brain. Therefore, a thorough exam is extremely important, as well as a complete medical history and list of medications currently being taken (both over-the-counter and prescription drugs). Family history of depressive illness should also be noted, due to the genetic component of brain illnesses.