Depression

Information about Depression

Unlocking the Secrets to Living Longer and Happier Lives
1200 675 Joe Casciani PhD

Are you interested in learning how to live longer, happier, and a healthier life? What are the secrets to living longer? David Edey has a conversation with Dr. Joe Casciani,…

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Useful Descriptive Terms for Communicating about Mental Disorders
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

The following terms may be useful when describing the speech, behavior, or appearance of an older adult as they relate to possible mental disorders. These may be observed in a…

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Symptoms of Dementia
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

In general, dementia produces a diffuse, or global decline in intellectual functioning. The symptoms of dementia cover a wide range of behaviors. These are shown in the table below. Memory…

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Dementia Subtypes
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

Dementia is caused by various diseases and conditions, many with no cure. The table below shows the early symptoms, pathology, and prevalence of four main dementia subtypes, all progressive and…

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Age-related Forgetfulness and More Serious Memory Problems
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

Problems with memory, particularly for recent events, is not uncommon during the aging process. Many people worry about how serious a case of “forgetfulness” may be. However, in contrast to…

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Delirium: What is It and What are the Signs?
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

Delirium is a state of mental confusion and disorganization. Delirium and dementia are different. This state of mental confusion and disorganization is found in older adults when they are experiencing…

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Depression, Dementia, and Delirium: What are the Differences?
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

Depression, dementia, and delirium are colloquially referred to as the “3 D’s”. First, what depression looks like: a) sad mood, feeling worthless, hopeless, and helpless; b) loss of interest, decreased…

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Caregiver Approaches when a Resident May Be Depressed
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

Seven Recommended Approaches when Interacting with a Resident Who May be Depressed Recognize symptoms – The older adult population typically does not admit to feelings of depression. Importantly, many are…

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Assessment of Depression in Older Adults: What are the Considerations?
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

These factors should be kept top of mind when assessing for evaluating depression in older adults: Older adults have higher rates of transient, recurring and atypical symptoms of depression (e.g.,…

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Relocation Stress Syndrome or Acute Stress Disorder?
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

Relocation stress syndrome may occur in older adults following an abrupt change in living arrangement. It may develop following a traumatic event such as the sudden loss of a spouse…

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Tips for Enhancing Social Engagement
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

Social engagement plays a critical role in a favorable aging process. It is a key step to maintaining psychological well-being. Staying connected with others minimizes the risk of retreat, isolation,…

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Dealing with Grief
800 560 Joe Casciani PhD

The loss of a loved one is the most stressful event in our lives. As we all know, when the death of someone close to us takes place, we experience…

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