Suzanne Killian

IRON MOUNTAIN — I have noticed that much more information has been being shared in the media lately regarding teenage depression. During the COVID epidemic, our awareness of depression became more acute as the social isolation during that time was very prevalent. As you may remember, people were simply afraid of going out and about for fear of getting sick.

However, I do not recall hearing much differentiation between teenage depression and the depression that can afflict seniors. While depression is a common mental health condition, adults older than 60 have a greater prevalence, at 5.7%, compared with 5% for all adults, according to World Health Organization estimates.

I want to delve into this topic in today’s column so we can better help ourselves and our loved ones if necessary.

Author Katharine Chan, MSc, BSc, PMP, detailed what to watch for in a November 2024 article, “How to Spot the Signs of Depression in Older Adults,” on the verywellmind website, www.verywellmind.com. Some red flags to be aware of include:

— Physical signs: While depression is a mood disorder, there are many physical signs of its presence. In fact, physical changes may be the first signs that are noticeable. Have sleeping and eating habits changed? Does physical appearance show any signs of change? Take note of an unexpected weight gain or loss and if there has been a change in appetite; eating more or less than usual. Take note of abnormally low energy levels. Dramatic sleep changes — either oversleeping or insomnia — are also indicative of possible depression. Finally, and most interesting of all, someone with depression may complain of physical aches and pains, without a clear medical cause, as an expression of their depressed mood.

— Cognitive signs: A new onset of diminished ability to think or concentrate or the presence of indecisiveness may be reflective of depression. These cognitive symptoms of depression may mimic the memory issues of dementia, and are sometimes referred to as “pseudodementia.” Unlike dementia, however, they tend to improve when the depression is effectively treated. It’s crucial to note, here, that not everyone experiences depression in a similar way, and the diagnosis can be more complicated with older adults.

— Behavioral signs: There can be behavioral manifestations of depression. Take note of how your loved one is taking care of themselves. For example, does their living space look significantly messier than usual? Are they struggling with hygiene like showering or brushing their teeth? These behavioral changes can sometimes signal depression in older adults. In cases of depression, speech and movements can also be impacted. Are they speaking and moving much slower than normal? Irritability or unexplained restlessness may be evident. It could potentially be a sign of depression if they have trouble sitting still or are constantly fidgeting.

— Emotional signs: A core emotional symptom of depression is a loss of interest in activities that had been enjoyed in the past. Socially isolating and not engaging with friends and family in any meaningful manner may also indicate depression. Also take note if a sense of sadness or hopelessness is pervasive. Having a few bad days can be a common experience. But to meet the criteria for a symptom of depression, a low or depressed mood must be present more days than not over a period of at least two weeks.

Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or being a burden are common expressions of depression in older adults, and, in severe cases, thoughts of death or suicide may emerge. If these signs are observed, it’s important to encourage the individual to seek professional help. Depression is treatable at any age, and early intervention can significantly improve quality of life.

What causes depression among older adults? There isn’t a single cause of depression in this age group. However, there are risk factors that can increase its likelihood. We may be tempted to wonder why seniors tend toward depression. After all, they are retired so no more hassles from a job. Their children are raised and independent, so no more worries there. But these reasons are exactly some of the contributors toward depression in this age group. Aging adults generally spend less time with other people as work and parenting duties diminish. A lack of social connections can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.

Genetics also play a role; people who have family members with depression are more likely to experience it. Having a medical condition such as cancer can negatively impact mental well-being. Lifestyle factors such as lack of physical activity, unbalanced diet, poor sleep and increased stress can play a role. Physical limitations increase with age and impair the ability to perform pleasurable activities.

Something else to be aware of is that depression in older adults presents itself a little differently than it does in younger people. Depression in the senior population is expressed more often with physical symptoms such as pain, fatigue and cognitive difficulties, which can be mistaken for aging or other health conditions.

Also, it is important to recognize that older adults are more likely to be experiencing the loss of loved ones or declining health, which are risk factors for depression. There is evidence that the risk of suicide is increased in older men. There is a generational stigma around mental health in this age group so they are more likely to withdraw socially and be less likely to discuss their feelings.

There is also a cultural factor that interferes with seniors and their willingness to talk about their feelings of sadness. Some cultures believe it’s taboo to speak about mental health or emotional issues and associate it with “losing face” or shame. Consequently, in this age group, depression may be more likely to be expressed as physical symptoms such as pain or digestive issues.

If depression is suspected, it is very important to offer your loved one support. Have an open and non-judgmental conversation with them. In a supportive way, you can mention some of the above signs and ask if they’ve noticed these feelings or behaviors. More often than not people experiencing depression will have noticed, but sometimes the onset of depression is gradual and harder to accept. We may worry that bringing the topic up will make our loved one feel worse. Quite often, however, it is actually quite helpful because our concern will help them feel seen and supported. Simply ask them how you can help. Maybe it will mean making them a meal or giving them a phone call more often just to check in and chat.

It is important to remain patient and understanding throughout the recovery period, the article advises. Encourage them to make healthy choices such as exercise, better nutrition and a good night’s rest. Stay connected to them and assist them with daily tasks. Finally, watch for worsening symptoms, including suicidal thoughts, and seek professional help when needed.

It certainly can be a challenge to keep a positive attitude as we age. Life just gets a little harder each year. We can no longer do as much for ourselves, and our pride gets in the way of us asking for the assistance we need. While we cannot control our physical decline, we can control our attitude. Just tell yourself what my mother always used to remind herself of: “Any day above ground is a good day.”

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NURSING HOMES/SENIOR LIVING FACILITIES

Freeman Nursing and Rehabilitation Community

Kingsford

906-774-1530

The center welcomes anyone who would like to entertain residents. Volunteers are also needed to help with crafts and other activities.

The third Tuesday of every month at 2 p.m. has a Memory Cafe – a fun hour to spend with others. For more information, contact Jaime Hathaway at jlhathaway@protonmail.com. The program runs on donations.

Sunday: Catholic Mass in dining room on YouTube, 10 a.m.; relax, coloring, 2 p.m.

Monday: Chair workout, 10 a.m.; trivia, 10:30 a.m.; sing along, 11 a.m.; dice club, 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Memory cafe, 2 p.m.; music with Michael, 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Bible study in dining room, 10 a.m.; coffee chat, 10:30 a.m.; crafts in dining room, 1:30 p.m.

Thursday: Crafts in rooms, 10 a.m.; hallway chat, 1:30 p.m.; George/bunny visit, 2 p.m.

Friday: Hangman, 10 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; Be an Angel Day

Saturday: Word search, 1 p.m.; family time, 2 p.m.; “Weakest Link” on PBS, 7 p.m.

Iron County Medical Care Facility

Crystal Falls

906-874-1501

Sunday: Room visits, 9 a.m.; Yahtzee, 9:30 a.m.; chair exercise, 10:45 a.m.; room visits, 12:30 p.m.; bingo, 1:30 p.m.

Monday: Cooking, 9:30 a.m.; DT luncheon, 11:30 a.m.; room visits, 1 p.m.; bonfire. 1:30 p.m.; Sunshine Club, 2:30 p.m.; bingo, 6 p.m.

Tuesday: Just friends. 9:30 a.m.; book club, 10 a.m.; Catholic Mass, 10 a.m.; wildlife film, 1:30 p.m.; Dan’s songs for seniors, 2 p.m.; musical movie, 6 p.m.

Wednesday: Coffee social/garden club 10 a.m.; exercise, 10:45 a.m.; monthly birthday party with Larry, music and cake, 2 p.m.; night bingo, 6:15 p.m.

Thursday: Puzzler, 9:30 a.m.; bowling, 10 a.m.; Bible study, 1 p.m.; travel film, 1:30 p.m.; United Lutheran Church, 2 p.m.; happy hour with Jim, 2 p.m.

Friday: Memory books, 9:30 a.m.; Sunset Lake picnic, 10 a.m.; exercise, 10:45 a.m.; room visits, 1 p.m.; web browsing, 2 p.m.; comedy movie, 6 p.m.

Saturday: ICMCF word search/high rollers, 9:30 a.m.; geri-gym, 10:45 a.m.; room visits, 1 p.m.; social hour, 2 p.m.; classic movie, 6 p.m.

Optalis Healthcare

Kingsford

906-774-4805

Sunday: Sunday devotional, 9:30 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; movie or games, 1 p.m.

Monday: Coffee time, 9:30 a.m.; daily chronicle, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; leisure in lobby, 6 p.m.

Tuesday: Coffee time, 9:30 a.m.; National Potato Day, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; UP Health System craft, 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Coffee time, 9 a.m.; Lutheran church, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m., bingo, 2 p.m.; leisure in lobby, 6 p.m. 

Thursday: Coffee time, 9:30 a.m.; Senior Citizens’ Day, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; family picnic day

Friday: Coffee time, 9:30 a.m.; daily chronicle, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.

Saturday: Manicures, 9:30 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; coffee time, 1:30 p.m.

Maryhill Manor Nursing Home

Niagara, Wis.

715-251-3172

Families are allowed to attend activities and are encouraged to join in.

Sunday: Coffee social, 10 a.m.; delivery of communion, 12:30 p.m.; prize bingo, 1:45 p.m.; church service, 2:30 p.m.

Monday: Rosary/communion service, 9 a.m.; pamper and polish, 10 a.m.; bocce ball, 2 p.m.; outing to Tripp’s Tavern, 5:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Rosary/communion service, 9 a.m.; Protestant service, 10 a.m.; tic-tac trivia, 10:15 a.m.; loaded baked potato fiesta, 2 p.m.; Chaplet of Divine Mercy, 3 p.m.

Wednesday: Rosary/communion, 9 a.m.; yard Yahtzee, 10 a.m.; senior citizen lunch outing, 11:30 a.m.; jokereno, 2 p.m.; Chaplet of Divine Mercy, 3 p.m.; Scrabble match, 5:30 p.m.

Thursday: Rosary, 9 a.m.; Catholic Mass, 9:30 a.m.; Maryhill family picnic, 11 a.m.; resident choice, 2 p.m.; Chaplet of Divine Mercy, 3 p.m.

Friday: Hedbanz, 10 a.m.; Happy hour with Ray and Mindy, 2 p.m.; outdoor social, 5:30 p.m.

Saturday: Uno, 10 a.m.; courtyard games, parachute, 2 p.m.; Packers vs. Seattle Seahawks, 3 p.m.

Northshore Healthcare

Florence, Wis.

715-528-4833

No information is available.

Victorian Pines

Iron Mountain

906-774-5158

Sunday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; Bible study, 1:30 p.m.

Monday: Juice time, 10 a. m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo and refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; trivia and refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Wednesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo and refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Thursday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Friday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Saturday: Juice time, 10 a.m.

Pinecrest Medical Care Facility

Powers

906-497-5244

Sunday: Morning visits and reality orientation; Bunco, 10 a.m.; trivia, 11:15 a.m.; church services, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday Funday, 2:30 p.m.; daily chronicle.

Monday: Morning visits and reality orientation; open room, 9:30 a.m.; travelogue, 11 a.m.; manicure Monday, 1:45 p.m.; Bible studies, 3 p.m.; Book Club, 4 p.m.; movie, “Sleepless in Seattle,” 6 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Tuesday: Morning visits and reality orientation, open room, 9:30 a.m.; juice hour/who-what-where, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; rummy, 4 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Wednesday: Morning visits and reality orientation, open room, 9:30 a.m.; “Grateful Cheese” food truck day, 11 a.m.; crafty Wednesday, 1:45 p.m.; Uno, 4 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Thursday: Morning visits and reality orientation; bingo/trivia, 10:30 a.m.; Celtic, 2 p.m.; table talk, 4 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Friday: Morning visits and realty orientation; Catholic Mass, 10:30 a.m.; would you rather, 11 a.m.; off to the races, 2 p.m.; book club, 4 p.m.; bonfire, 6 p.m.

Saturday: Morning visits and reality orientation; exercise group, 10 a.m.; Bible studies/juice hour, 11 a.m.; bingo, 1:45 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 3 p.m.; daily chronicles.

SENIOR CENTERS

Amasa Center

906-822-7284

Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Chicken bacon ranch, buttered noodles, broccoli, pudding.

Wednesday: Mushroom and Swiss burger, oven-baked fries, baked macaroni and cheese.

Thursday: Celebrating all August birthdays — scalloped potatoes and ham, peas, biscuit, cake.

Breen Center

Kingsford

906-774-5110

Dine-in eating Monday through Thursday at noon, salad bar at 11:30 a.m. Carryout meals are available. Soup and salad bar are also available. Friday and night meals are on hold indefinitely. Menu for the week —

Monday: Biscuits and sausage gravy, oven-roasted potatoes, applesauce.

Tuesday: Chicken bacon ranch, buttered noodles, broccoli, pudding.

Wednesday: Mushroom and Swiss burger, oven-baked fries, baked macaroni and cheese.

Thursday: Celebrating all August birthdays — scalloped potatoes and ham, peas, biscuit, cake.

Crystal Falls Center

Head cook: Elizabeth Peryam

Assistant cooks: Debbie Bigalke and Shannon Stapleton

906-875-6709

The center is serving meals for dine-in or takeout — call the center by 1 p.m. to make reservations or place an order. All food purchased from local vendors. All dinners include warm vegetables, salad bar, soup, homemade desserts, coffee, tea or milk. Salad bar begins at 4:30 p.m. and dinner is served at 5 p.m. Pickup for takeout meals is 4 p.m. — call ahead and leave a message with a phone number. Deliveries made to homebound citizens only. Menu for the week —

Monday: Spaghetti with Italian sausage, garlic bread.

Tuesday: Taco Tuesday — one hard and one soft shell taco, rice, beans.

Wednesday: Pork chops, mashed potatoes and gravy.

Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency

Iron Mountain

906-774-2256, ext. 230 or 235

This is a Meals on Wheels program only. Home-delivered meals only — call to make arrangements. Menu for the week —

Monday: Biscuits and sausage gravy, oven-roasted potatoes, applesauce.

Tuesday: Chicken bacon ranch, buttered noodles, broccoli, pudding.

Wednesday: Mushroom and Swiss burger, oven-baked fries, baked macaroni and cheese.

Thursday: Celebrating all August birthdays — scalloped potatoes and ham, peas, biscuit, cake.

Friday: Chicken salad on a bun, yogurt, fresh banana, string cheese.

Note: All meals include a choice of skim milk, juice or no beverage.

For more information, call Christine McMahon at 906-774-2256.

Crystal Lake Center

Iron Mountain

906-828-1776

Schedule for the week:

Monday: Les Artistes art club, noon to 3 p.m.; woodcarvers, starting at 9 a.m.

Tuesday: Cards — Pinochle and cribbage, noon to 4 p.m.; Happy Quilters, noon to 3 p.m.

Wednesday: Bingo, 1 to 3 p.m.; cards cost 25 cents with 10 games played.

Thursday: Spinning Spools quilting, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; board games, 1 to 3 p.m.

Friday: Cards — Smear, noon to 4 p.m.; chess, noon.

Felch Center

906-246-3559

Head cook: Joan Wickman, 906-246-3559

Program president: Lisa Casey, 906-282-7899.

Salad bar opens at 11 a.m., with the meal at 11:30 a.m. and dessert to follow. Evening meal is served every third Wednesday of the month, with sponsored activities. Takeout meals are available. Delivery offered to homebound residents within Felch, West Branch and Breen townships.

Menu for the week —

Monday: Biscuits and gravy, hash brown potatoes, yogurt.

Tuesday: Sloppy Joes, macaroni and cheese, chips.

Wednesday: Evening meal — baked chicken, stuffing, mashed potatoes with gravy.

Aging and Disability Resource Center

Florence County, Wis.

715-528-4890

Menu for the week —

Monday: Smothered pork chop, mashed potatoes, candied carrots, fruit.

Tuesday: Amish breakfast bake, broccoli slaw, mixed berries and cream.

Wednesday: Chicken breast, baked sweet potato, green beans, fruit, cinnamon roll cake.

Thursday: Wisconsin cheese soup, salad, breadsticks, fruit.

Friday: Breakfast taco — scrambled eggs, sausage, sweet pepper, onion, cheese and tortilla, diced oven potatoes, cranberry juice, fruit.

Note: All meals served with whole grain bread, butter and milk.

Aurora-Hillcrest Dining Center

Serving at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday. For reservations, call 715-589-4491.

Florence Community Center

Serving at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Thursday. For reservations, call 715-528-4261.

Fence Town Hall

Serving at noon Wednesday only. For reservations, call 715-589-4491.

Tipler Town Hall

Serving at noon on second Thursday only. For reservations, call 715-528-4261.

Hermansville Center

Coordinator: Barb Peters

906-498-7735

Center is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Meals are served through the Menominee-Delta-Schoolcraft Community Action Agency in Escanaba. Meals-On-Wheels program is available for those who are homebound.

Monday: Swedish turkey meatballs with noodles, chef’s choice vegetable, green beans, pineapple-Mandarin orange mix.

Tuesday: French toast sausage bake, oven potatoes, warm cinnamon apples, fruit juice.

Wednesday: Meatloaf with ketchup glaze, mashed potatoes with gravy, diced carrots, whole wheat bread, fruit cocktail.

Thursday: Chicken taco salad, croissant, corn and black beans, tortilla chips, whole wheat bread, fruit cup.

Friday: Barbecue pulled pork, whole wheat hamburger bun, boiled red potatoes, baked beans, fresh fruit.

Milk served at every meal.

Iron River Center

906-265-6134

Salad bar opens at 11:30 a.m., with the meal served at noon a.m. No night meals are available. Meals can be prepared for carryout.

Menu for the week —

Monday: Biscuits and sausage gravy, oven-roasted potatoes, applesauce.

Tuesday: Chicken bacon ranch, buttered noodles, broccoli, pudding.

Wednesday: Mushroom and Swiss burger, oven baked fries, baked macaroni and cheese.

Thursday: Celebrating August birthdays — scalloped potatoes and ham, peas, biscuit, cake.

All meals are served with choice of skim milk or juice and fruit.

Niagara Senior Center/Cafe

715-251-1603

Dinner is served at noon Monday through Thursday. Reservations are required one day in advance. Suggested donation for the meal is $5 for those older than 60 and $11 for 60 and younger. Bingo is played on most Wednesdays. Transportation to the meal site is available.

Tuesday: Beef stroganoff, egg noodles, peas, side salad, applesauce.

Wednesday: Turkey sandwich on wheat bread with lettuce and tomato, chips, banana.

Thursday: Lemon baked fish, sweet potato fries, baked beans, rye bread, orange fruit fluff.

Norway Center

Director: Alicia Rochon

906-563-8716

Dine-in eating begins at 11:30 a.m. Salad bar available from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Takeout meals are available for pick-up from 11:15 to 11:30 a.m. Those attending should let staff know in advance if planning to dine in or picking up the meal.

Menu for the week —

Monday: Chicken chop suey, rice, broccoli, fruit cocktail.

Tuesday: Cheeseburger, fries, baked beans, fruit cocktail.

Wednesday: Evening meal at 4 p.m., roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans.

Thursday: Lasagna, garlic bread, wax beans, apricots.

Board meeting on Thursday.

Center activity schedule:

Mondays and Thursdays — Exercise at 10 a.m. and card bingo after the meal.

Monday through Thursday — Card game 101 from noon to 3 p.m. Call Joe at 906-563-5587 for information.

Tuesdays — Quilting and sewing.

Wednesdays — Ceramics and crocheting.

Last Monday of each month — Book club at 9 a.m.

Second Thursday of each month — birthdays and bingo.

Sagola Center

906-542-3273

Dine-in meals served. Salad bar opens at 11 a.m. and meal is served at 11:30 a.m. Carryout meals also available.

Tuesday: “A Taste of Italy” — pasta and meatballs, green beans, Italian bread, dessert or fruit.

Wednesday: Grilled cheeseburgers, french fries, vegetable, dessert or fruit.

Thursday: Slow-cooked reuben brats, corn on the cob, cheesy potatoes, dessert or fruit.