Late life depression: nursing actions that can help

Abstract

Purpose: This article explains the symptoms of late life depression (LLD) and discusses evidence‐informed actions that nurses can implement to provide older adults with the help they need. Conclusions: Recognizing and addressing depression in older adults can enhance quality of life. Practice Implications: People with LLD may not appear sad or express feelings of depression. Instead, they demonstrate loss of interest, frailty, cognitive impairment,suicidal ideation, unexplained somatic complaints, and loneliness. Documenting symptoms, screening, and assessing suicidal ideation are essential. Positive outcomes are associated with antidepressant medications, cognitive behavioral therapy, electroconvulsive therapy, neuromodulation therapies, and exercise.