What causes Depression in older people?

Some people believe that Depression is a normal part of getting older, but this is not true. As with any age group, Depression in older people can be caused by a variety of factors. These may include the following:

• Other health conditions which may limit your mobility and/or ability to get around and do the things you used to do.
  
  
• Changes in lifestyle such as retirement for example, which may feel like a loss of status or purpose.
  
  
• Bereavement - while everyone grieves the loss of a loved one, for some people, grief can develop into Depression.
  
  
• Isolation and loneliness -perhaps you live a long way from your relatives; in a city where you don't know your neighbours or in a rural area where it is hard to get around.
  
  
• Financial difficulties - after you retire, you may find yourself living on a smaller income and not able to do as much as you used to. Claiming benefits can be stressful and complicated.
  
  
• Being a carer for a dependent relative or friend can be stressful and put a strain on your own health.
  
  
• Some older people may be more vulnerable to abuse by carers or in some circumstances family members. Abuse that happened in the past can also affect how you feel in the present.