Older Men and Depression

Depression affects people of all ages. It is not an inevitable or normal aspect of ageing, although some of the changes that may accompany ageing, such as poor health and the loss of peers and loved ones, may contribute to it.

Most of us will feel sadness or grief during our lives, that feeling is normal and will usually not last very long. Depression is an intense feeling of sadness that lasts for a long time, sometimes weeks, months or years and can interfere with your day-to-day life.

Depression can be caused by biological, social and psychological factors. Causes of depression in later life may include difficulty in adjusting to retirement, loss of friends or loved ones, chronic illness, and financial pressure.