Depression

Depression is a treatable mental illness that can have deep negative impacts on all aspects of life. It is the most common mental health problem for older adults, but it is not an expected part of aging.

On this page you will find important information if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of depression. There are also resources for health professionals about the challenges of diagnosis, the complexity of caring for older adults, and treatment options which can result in major functional, social and health gains.

Watch our 1 minute video “Feeling sad and lonely as you age? You don’t have to!" to learn more about depression in older adults.

Information for Older Adults & Families:

  1. Download or print our brochure about depression for older adults for information about symptoms and what you can do right now to start feeling better.
  2. View the Depression in Older Adults infographic for information about prevention, symptoms, and diagnosis of depression - including steps to take right now to start your recovery journey.
  3. View the Treatment of Depression in Older Adults infographic for an overview of current depression treatments based on the stepped-care model.

Information & Tools for Clinicians:

  1. Download and read our updated (June 2021) Canadian Guidelines on Prevention, Assessment and Treatment of Depression Among Older Adults.
  2. View, download, and print the Are my patients at higher risk of depression? brief clinician card, co-created by CCSMH and National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly. It provides an overview of diagnostic considerations for depression in older adults.
  3. The Depression In Older Adults clinician pocket card will provide an overview of the assessment and treatment of depression in older adults.

 

COMING SUMMER 2023

  1. A stepped-care treatment information infographic and health provider screensaver are in development. Stay tuned!