Depression affects over 19 million adults in the US each year, with at least one in four seniors over the age of 65 experiencing a mental health episode such as depression. With the population of this age range set to increase in the next few years, the number of people living with depression or mental health disorders in their golden years is set to double.
One of the more recurring aspects of depression in older people is that it can often go undiagnosed, especially if the person has other health conditions. Undiagnosed and untreated depression can significantly impact a person’s quality of life at any age, but especially for seniors.
Studies suggest that those who experienced depression in their younger years are more at risk of having depression as an older adult.
Depression Treatment
Depression in seniors can be treated in various ways, and it’s important to know that private insurance premiums and Medicare usually cover depression. Options for treatment may include medication, which include Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs).
Depression can also be treated with psychotherapy or other forms of talking therapy. There is no right or wrong way to treat depression in seniors; as such, it’s imperative to find the right treatment option to help them overcome their symptoms and regain their quality of life.
In more severe cases of depression, patients may be treated with Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT). This form of treatment is only usually considered if other treatment options aren’t effective.
Common Causes of Depression In Seniors
There are many reasons why a senior might have depression, but the most common three causes are poor physical health, social isolation, and loss. Depression can also present due to genetics and their environment. In some cases, there may not be a visible reason.
Medicare Depression Treatment Options
Medical professionals recognize the importance of mental health in seniors, there is coverage for depression under Medicare. There are a range of screenings and services available for seniors with depression under Medicare Part B, which covers doctor and outpatient care.
Mental health services for depression under Medicare include:
- One free yearly mental health screening
- Family counseling
- Individual or group psychotherapy
- Evaluations to track treatment progress
- Medication management
- Psychological evaluations
- Injections or other treatments that cannot be self-administered
Medicare Part D covers all forms of prescription medication required to treat depression. While Medicare covers the treatment, it isn’t completely free of charge. Patients must pay copayments, coinsurance, and other deductibles (on top of their insurance premium payments).
Is API Considered In-Network for Medicare?
API is certified by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This means that patients with Medicare can be accepted as patients and receive coverage towards the cost of ongoing treatment for depression.
API’s Center on Aging
At Alvarado Parkway Institute’s Center on Aging, we understand that seniors’ mental health needs can often be overlooked. We offer services that treat the whole patient by determining the best treatment plan for seniors with mental health disorders including psychotic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, anxiety disorders, as well as substance use disorders.
At Alvarado Parkway Institute’s Center on Aging, inpatient and outpatient programs offer treatment plans for mental health and substance use disorders. Seniors receive a structured and comprehensive treatment program in a safe, caring, and compassionate environment. Each program is personalized to meet the needs of the individual patient (based on their circumstances) to allow for a more tailored and flexible treatment approach that supports rapid symptom improvement via proven methods.
API’s inpatient program offers medical detox, psychiatric evaluations, medication treatment plans, and therapy to support recovery and ongoing progress after discharge. Our outpatient services include group therapies, including Reminiscence Therapy, Communication Skills, Life Skills, Healing Through Music, Life and Wellness, and Creative Expression to facilitate complete recovery supporting physical, emotional, and mental health.
Nuances of Treating Depression in Seniors
For the treatment of depression in seniors to be successful, it is essential that they are listened to and understood. Individuals often have a hard time admitting they are struggling mentally or even physically; as such, they might not be as forthcoming or receptive when admitting they have depression or to getting treatment. Treatment plans also need to take into account other health conditions, medications, and treatments they might be undergoing.
Seniors can often experience massive changes and upheaval in their lives and health which can affect their mental health. By understanding the patient and seniors, you can devise an effective treatment plan that works best for them based on their needs and circumstances.
How API’s Center on Aging Can Help You and Your Loved One
We are focused on helping those who need mental health or substance use support to get their lives back on track and regain their quality of life. We strive to offer seniors an extensive inpatient or outpatient program that embraces the bigger picture and treats each patient with compassion and respect. Providing integrity in everything we do enables us to offer a higher level of service. Our dedicated Center on Aging is specifically to support seniors. We hope to enable them to overcome their struggles in a safe and understanding environment.
To find out more about seeking help and treatment for mental health disorders in seniors, contact us today at 619-333-7050. Look to us to see how we can support your road to recovery.
