Why Is Depression Difficult to Diagnose in Older Adults

question 11

Multiple Choice

Why is depression difficult to diagnose in older adults?

• A) Many of the diagnostic symptoms are similar to normal losses associated with aging.
• B) Normal cognitive loss associated with aging makes it hard for older people to answer questions about their mental state.
• C) There are no diagnostic criteria for diagnosing depression in the elderly.
• D) As nearly all older depressed individuals commit suicide, there are few depressed individuals left to diagnose.

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Definitions:

Safety Needs

Refers to the psychological and physical security requirements that are considered essential for an individual's well-being and survival.

Social Needs

Fundamental human requirements for belonging, love, and affection that motivate behavior and influence social interactions and relationships.

Esteem Needs

According to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, these are the fourth level of human needs, involving respect, self-esteem, and recognition from others.

Self-Actualization

The realization or fulfillment of one’s talents and potentialities, considered as a drive or need present in everyone.