What support helps a 73-year-old with MDD feel less isolated?

Question

Hello doctor,

My dad is a 73-year-old male with MDD, and it seems to have worsened since retirement and the loss of some close friends. He is on medication, but he still spends most days alone and says that nobody truly understands what he is feeling.

The sadness is one thing, but honestly, the isolation seems just as difficult for him. We try to support him, but sometimes family support does not seem to be enough.

For older adults with major depressive disorder, what kind of support or community actually helps people feel less alone and more understood?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Post-retirement depression in elderly people is a common psychiatric condition. Although he is receiving professional treatment with medications, he still appears to be in a state of emotional despair and isolation. Along with medical treatment, family and social support play a very important role in recovery.

You can try the following simple approaches to help him feel more connected and emotionally supported:

Spend regular quality time with him.
Involve him in family discussions and decisions, and ask for his opinions. If he resists, reassure him by saying, "Your opinions and decisions matter to us. Please guide us; we need you."
Fostering socialization and re-establishing connections with former friends or family members.
Encouraging exercise like walking. It would be better if he could do this with someone else, as company usually boosts one’s determination.
Involve him in childcare activities or helping children with homework, if appropriate.
Provide a healthy and nutritious diet, and encourage the reduction of alcohol or substance use if present.
Ask about his hobbies and interests, and encourage activities such as gardening, music, reading, or indoor games. Learning something new can also improve mood and engagement.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.