One of the strongest risk factors for late-life depression is

It has been found that one of the most common pathologies in this stage of life is depression. It is important to emphasize that, as in any other moment of life (childhood, adolescence, youth, adulthood), it is a disease. Often, this sadness, low self-esteem, lack of motivation, despair ... are confused with a "normal" state of old age, which makes diagnosis difficult and, therefore, the treatment.

Older adults suffering from depression may perceive higher rates of insomnia and suicidal ideation as well as a more marked memory loss. In addition, reaction times tend to be longer.

The prevalence rate of depression in adults is higher than in older people; however, the consequences are more serious in the latter due to physical illness, the risk of suicide, lack of functional capacity, etc. Depression is often associated with less physical development. It is found that in many cases when depression decreases, physical function increases.