Homecare: Helping Your Dad Through His Depression Diagnosis
Homecare: Depression, even if it’s mild, isn’t to be ignored.
Your dad should talk to his doctor and see if there’s an underlying reason for his depression. Many things increase the risk of depression as you age, including illness or health conditions, chronic stress, insomnia, the death of a friend or family member, or social isolation. This should all be taken seriously and considering homecare assistance would be a good idea at this time.
Homecare: Depression
You Cannot Prevent Depression, But Some Lifestyle Changes May Lower Your Risk Factors.
Eating a balanced diet with essential vitamins and nutrients is critical. Daily exercise is also important. Here’s what you need to do to help your dad through his depression diagnosis.
Address Underlying Health Issues
Being diagnosed with a chronic health condition can lead to depression. If your dad learns he has cancer, heart disease, dementia, or other health issues, address the next steps. A clear plan of action can help him better understand what will happen in the following weeks and months.
By being prepared, taking prescribed medications, and attending his doctor’s appointments, those steps can keep his health stable. That can help keep the depression from spiraling out of control.
Eat Well
Your dad should be avoiding processed foods. A 2018 report presented by the American Academy of Neurology found that people following the DASH diet were less likely to become depressed. Depression rates were 11 percent lower in people following the DASH diet.
A diet that focuses on fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and low-fat dairy seems to make a difference. Not only can the DASH diet help with depression, but it’s also known to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Your dad should consider following this diet and see if it helps.
Make Sure He Attends Recommended Therapy Sessions
Your dad’s doctor may recommend therapy sessions with a psychiatrist or psychologist. If that’s the recommended course of action, make sure your dad attends those sessions.
If he doesn’t feel his therapist is helping, it happens. Don’t force him to keep going. Instead, offer to find him a different therapist. Sometimes, it takes a few tries to find the right fit.
Schedule Companion Care Services
He may want to be left alone, but you need to do the opposite. Arrange for him to have someone around for companionship. He needs someone to help him get out of bed and engage in activities. Homecare providers can help with these services. Call and talk to a specialist about companion care at home today.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Homecare in Wilmette, IL, call the caring staff at LifeCare Home Health & In-Home Services. Call (888) 606-4199 LifeCare serves all of the Chicago Metro Area.
Sources:
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/665425
- How Does Physical Therapy Help Prevent Senior Falls? - May 12, 2023
- Types of Home Health Care Nursing Services - May 4, 2023
- Detecting Early Signs of Alzheimer’s with Alzheimer’s Care - April 28, 2023