#121 - Is Late Life Depression Treatable?

Depression is not a normal part of aging—yet it's silently stealing joy, independence, and even life from millions of older adults. Most go undiagnosed and untreated. Why? Because we mistake their suffering for “just getting older.” But here’s the truth: late-life depression is serious—and it’s highly treatable.

In today’s episode, you’ll learn how to spot the signs, challenge the myths, and take action that truly changes lives.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What late-onset depression is and how it differs from earlier-life depression
• How depression presents differently in older adults—beyond just sadness
• Key risk factors: chronic illness, loss, isolation, and more
• Why the myth that "older adults can’t change" is flat-out wrong
• Practical, research-informed steps you can take to help someone get care
• Why healing and transformation are possible—at every age

Here’s the Truth:

When older adults don’t receive mental health care:
✔️ Medical issues worsen
✔️ Medication use increases
✔️ Hospital visits spike
✔️ Caregiver and family stress grows
✔️ Quality of life plummets
✔️ Suicide risk rises

But when they do get care? Healing happens. Purpose returns. And lives transform.

Click here to get resources mentioned in this episode. 

Remember...

it’s only with your help that we can meet the mental health needs of older adults. So thank you for being here—and thank you for doing your part.

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