Final answer:
People above 65 may underreport depression symptoms due to misattributing them to aging, stigma, fear of losing independence, and ageism in healthcare. LGBTQ seniors may have additional obstacles in finding support. Despite having free time for hobbies, decreased social contact and health issues can elevate the risk of depression.
Step-by-step explanation:
People above the age of 65 may not report depression symptoms due to a variety of reasons. Older adults might have a tendency to view symptoms of depression as a normal part of aging, which can lead to underreporting. There's also a possibility that they might not recognize the symptoms of depression, attributing them instead to other age-related health issues like fatigue, insomnia, or physical illness. Additionally, the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly among older generations, may discourage seniors from seeking help or acknowledging their psychological distress. Fear of losing independence, or not wanting to be a burden to their loved ones, can also contribute to underreporting. Lastly, healthcare providers could potentially miss depression in the elderly, as they might focus more on managing chronic physical conditions that are prevalent in this age group.
It's worth noting that ageism may also play a role. Older adults may receive less care or have their reports of pain or sadness taken less seriously than younger individuals. In addition, for certain groups like LGBTQ seniors, there may be fewer resources or less recognition of their specific needs, which complicates their ability to receive appropriate care and support for depressive symptoms.
While old age often brings more time for hobbies and personal interests after retirement, the associated decrease in social contact and potential loneliness can paradoxically increase the risk of depression. Coupled with physical health challenges such as arthritis, hypertension, or heart disease, and the potential for decreased mobility or disability, elders face many stressors that could lead to depression. These factors all contribute to why depression is a significant concern in geriatric health, even if it may not be reported consistently.