Depression In Old People: Common Signs and How Deal With The Problem

Within the last few years, the number of individuals suffering from depression has shot up. Interestingly, old people are largely affected, and they currently contribute the largest percentage of individuals suffering from depression. This condition is fast becoming one of the biggest concerns. More than ever, people are being advised to seek help immediately before things get out of hand. Here is what you need to know about depression in old people.

Signs Of Depression In Old People

First, recognizing depression in old people starts with knowing what the real signs are. If you are taking care of an old person, here are some major depression red flags you should always look out for;

· Feeling of despair and sadness

· Loss on interest in socializing

· Sleep problems like staying awake or oversleeping

· Neglecting personal care like taking bathing

· Sudden weight loss

How To Deal With A Depressed Person

Dealing with a depressed person can be quite complicated. Thankfully, through some ways, you can help him or her cope with the condition. Here is what you can do.

Show Some Love To Them

Just like what you do to your kids, show some love to the old people. They need to feel your love and care. Create time and have a little chat with them. Talk about how the feel and ask them how best you can provide the kind of care they need.

Let Them Participate In Some Activities

Truth be told, depression is less likely to manifest if the body and mind are kept active. For this reason, suggest some activities and let them participate. For example, you can prepare that small vegetable garden together, play chess, or you do any other thing they love doing.

Provide Healthy Meals

A poor diet is one of the biggest contributors of depression. So make sure your old man is eating right. Some of the foods you should include in your daily meals include whole grains, fruits, and fresh vegetables.

Take Them To Support Groups

If you know a center in town where people who are going through the same challenges often meet and talk; take him or her there. These are some of the safest and conducive places to share experiences, encouragement and most importantly advice on how to cope with depression.

Provide Supportive Counseling

During free time, take him or her for some religious and peer counseling. With them having a chat with someone can help ease loneliness and hopelessness of depression. In short, at the end of it all; he or she will have found new meaning and purpose in life.

Over The Counter Medications; How To Use Them Safely And Effectively

At one point or the other, we have all sought medication for minor ailments at the stores without a doctor’s prescription, this is known as over the counter medication commonly abbreviated as OTC. There are different types of OTC medicines used to treat problems such as allergies, body aches, flu and even fever.

Where Can One Find Over The Counter Medications?

One can easily find OTC medicines at the pharmacies, supermarkets or at the next store on your street. The display of these drugs will depend on the type. Take for instance; a headache relief tablet will be displayed on the shelves ready for purchase while the birth control pill will be behind the shelves. This is because some drugs need the pharmacist’s assessment of the buyer before selling it to them; It is in line with the set pharmaceutical guidelines.

How To The Medication Safely And Effectively

Noting that OTC medicines are sold to customers who are seeking self-treatment, I compiled a few important tips that will be of help in getting not only the best but also the safest from these drugs.

Pregnant and lactating mothers are strongly advised to keep off any OTC medicines. If any need arises, then they should consult with their health service provider. The same rules apply to children.

Read The Labels

Check out for the directions for use, the expiry dates, dosage limits and so on. The labels will also notify you of any possible side effects and what to do should they occur.

Do Not Store OTC Medicines For Too Long

Agreed, it is a prudent thing to have a number of medications at home just to be safe on a rainy day but don’t store them for too long. The change in temperatures may reduce their effectiveness. Always remember to store all medicines in a cool dry place.

Do Not Administer Drugs Meant For Adults To Children And Vice Versa

I know, the temptation of giving children half dose of what’s meant for the adults is real, but please don’t! Drugs and medicines work differently. Take for instance, Aspirin works perfectly by sweeping out fever in adults but it is unsuitable for children unless your doctor says it.

Seek medical attention if any symptoms persist even after taking over the counter medication.

Get professional medical help if you have taken OTC medication without success. You might be shocked to find out that you have been treating the wrong disease.

If in any case the OTC drugs do not work for you and you are forced to see a doctor, make him know about any drug that you have used and for how long. As a matter of fact, bring the remaining drugs or the packaging with you.

Minor Ailments That Can Be Treated Without A Prescription

OTC drugs have continuously been used to help relieve body pains, aches, allergies and sprains, and skin conditions to mention but a few.

For Flu, Drugs such as antihistamines and decongestants help one in handling flu and its symptoms until they get to seek medical help. Antihistamines are also known to suppress most allergic reactions.