The Elder Justice Resource Guide includes information about elder abuse, accessible courtrooms for older adults, capacity and confusion, effective communication, and available resources for older adults experiencing abuse. The Guide also includes a comprehensive directory of national, state, and local services available to older adults.
Capacity & Confusion:
Depression in Elders
Major Depression:
Defined as depressed mood or a marked loss of interest that is experienced most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks of longer. At least five of the following eight symptoms are also present:
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- Unexplained weight loss or weight gain; loss of appetite
- Insomnia or hypersomnia
- Psychomotor agitation or retardation
- atigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Thoughts of death; suicidal ideation
- Loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities
Risk Factors For Major Depression
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- Medications
- Concurrent medical disorder
- Life stressors and lack of social supports
- Prior episodes of depression
- Family history of depression
- History of suicide attempt
- Substance abuse
Common Complaint in Patients with Depression
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- General – fatigue, anxiety, paranoia, apathy, weight loss, weakness
- Cardiac – chest pains, palpitations, fainting
- Pulmonary – shortness of breath
- Gastrointestinal – nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea/constipation
- Genitourinary – dysuria, frequency of urination, urgency, incontinence, sexual dysfunction
- Musculoskeletal – back pain
- Neurological – memory difficulty, loss of concentration, headache, dizziness
Created by:
LifeCare Advocates, 180 Wells Avenue,Suite 101,Newton, MA 02459, (617) 928-0200 www.lcadvocates.com
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