Senile Depression and Depressive State

Abstract

This article explains the differential diagnosis, characteristics, environmental and psychological factors, and treatment of senile depression. In case of senile depressive state, it is important to distinguish depression from delirium and dementia. Frequent physical complaints as well as notable anxiety and restlessness are described as the characteristics of senile depression. As pathogenic factors, environmental factors such as retirement and children’s independence as well as psychological factors such as age-related decrease in mental and physical strength are mentioned. The treatment of senile depression is explained from the perspective of yojo (cure), based on the concepts of Morita Therapy, and it was suggested that appropriate advices should take into account the degree of recovery. It is also important that even after the diagnosis of depression is given, one should bear in mind that it may shift to dementia over time or may present delirium temporarily.