Age matters when it comes to depression

A recent Dutch study following 1,042 people aged 18 to 88 who have been diagnosed with depression found that depression amongst older people (specifically, those aged 70 and older) is more severe than depression amongst those in younger age-groups. Furthermore, older people are less likely to reach remission and more likely to endure longer episodes of depression. International Federation on Ageing (IFA) expert Prof. Perminder Sachdev is a neuropsychiatry expert on the ageing brain who can provide further information regarding the impact of age on mental health.

Recently, there has been an increase in discussion surrounding the impact social isolation and loneliness can have on older people, however this study found that these factors, along with number of chronic diseases and functional impairment, only partially explains the severity of depression, with old age remaining the central risk factor. In sum, age matters when it comes to depression. Contact IFA Expert Dr. Anne Martin-Matthews, Professor of Ageing and Lifecourse, to understand how factors related to the provision of healthcare for older people may also contribute to the severity of depression in later life.

To further expand your knowledge and connect with top thought leaders in the field of ageing and mental health, consider attending the IFA 14th Global Conference on Ageing 8-10 August 2018. Under a key Conference theme ‘Toward Healthy Ageing’, experts will present on topics such as cognitive health, end of life care, social exclusion and mental health amongst older people. Visit www.IFA2018.com for more information.

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