It is estimated that between 10 and 15% of older adults experience depression. Depression in old age can occur in people who have had this disorder at younger ages, for the first time in old age, or as a secondary condition resulting from an illness.

Although depression is very common in older adults, it is sometimes mistaken for dementia or simply the aging process. Furthermore, the symptoms differ from those seen in adolescence and adulthood, as older adults typically do not express sadness or feelings of guilt.

Some of the symptoms are confused with those of other medical or neurological diseases, such as:

• Palpitations
• Fatigue
• Gastrointestinal discomfort
• Headache
• Concern
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Obsessive thoughts,
• Loss of attention and memory
• Weight loss

Most older people who attempt suicide have a depressive disorder, a risk factor at this age, especially if it is not diagnosed and treated.