Caregivers_Bars-Geriatric-Pain

FAST FACTS: Differentiating Pain and Depression

Differentiating Pain and Depression

Depression, while common in older adults, is NOT a normal part of aging. In fact, most older adults are not depressed. The chance of developing depression in later life increases as problems with health interfere with quality of life. Although everyone feels sad from time to time, to be diagnosed with depression five or more symptoms must be present for more than 2 weeks. However, after a significant loss like the death of a loved one, a two-month mourning period is allowed prior to diagnosis of depression.

Symptoms of Depression

  • Saddened mood most of the day
  • Significantly decreased interest in activities
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Weight loss or overall decreased appetite
  • Increased agitation, restlessness, or irritability
  • Fatigue
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • Decreased ability to concentrate
  • Suicidal thoughts or wish for death
  • Unfortunately, unmanaged pain can look very similar to depression in older adults and can also contribute to depression. It is important to recognize pain as different from depression.

Symptoms of Unmanaged Pain

  • Crying, praying, or calling out
  • Increased agitation, restlessness, or irritability
  • Lack of emotional expression
  • Decreased appetite
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Decreased socialization
  • Diminished ability to perceive or reason
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt

What Else You Should Do

  • Write down and share information about your loved one’s pain with their healthcare provider
  • Use a Pain Diary to note important information useful to the healthcare provider
  • Encourage your loved one to try a non-drug treatment and document the impact on their pain in their Pain Diary

 

References:

  1. National Institute on Aging. July 7, 2021. Depression and Older Adults. Accessed 2.21.2022. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/depression-and-older-adults  
  2. Centers for Disease Control or Prevention (CDC). January 6, 2021.  Depression is Not a Normal Part of Growing Older. Accessed 2.21.2022. https://www.cdc.gov/aging/depression/index.html

Revised January 2022

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