As is with the younger people and kids there are always tell tale signs of depression in every age group. Symptoms and signs in the elderly, are a constant sadness, tiredness and fatigue, loosing interest in what used to be a pleasurable past time earlier, becoming a recluse and withdrawing from being in company, loosing normal appetite and weight, erratic sleep pattern, a feeling of worthlessness and sometimes drug abuse or suicidal attempts.
Most of these symptoms and depression itself are brought on by loneliness and isolation. For those who have lost a spouse and do not have anyone else to turn to, depression is a common complaint. If there is a good support system such signs of depression would not appear and these seniors would lead a normal content life. Often older people who are left alone neglect their health and become more ill because of this.
Many show signs of depression when they retire as they have no other way of spending time, or earning a livelihood and staying at home means lack of company. Keeping ones self occupied with a hobby or a good support group is what one requires post retirement. If these signs start appearing in any one of your older relatives it is time to help them and ensure that their life style is made more meaningful so that they do not go into severe depression or ill health. If there has been bereavement in recent time this is another cause for depression setting in for the elderly. Keeping them company and helping them to cope with the situation can lessen the severity of the depressive feelings and maybe overcome them completely.