Late-life depression—depression that affects people aged 60 and older—is a serious mental health concern that too often is ignored. Depression can significantly impact quality of life, physical health, and overall well-being at any age, but can be especially troublesome when experienced later in life. Unfortunately, depression in older adults is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated, leaving many seniors to suffer in silence.
Recent advancements in mental health treatment can help. At Colorado Recovery Solutions, we offer several treatments that can help seniors who are struggling with depression, including TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation).
In 2024, the FDA officially approved TMS for the treatment of late-life depression, extending the approved age for TMS treatment for depression up to age 86. Previously, TMS was approved for depression treatment only to age 68. The FDA clearance opens new possibilities for depression treatment even for elderly patients.
Additionally, Medicare covers TMS therapy, making it an attractive option for many older adults who have Medicare coverage.
How Common is Late-Life Depression?
Depression affects millions of senior citizens worldwide. According to the CDC, nearly 7 million adults over the age of 65 in the U.S. experience depression each year. However, the actual numbers may be even higher, as many cases go undiagnosed or are dismissed as part of the aging process.
While depression can occur at any age, it often presents differently in older adults. Many seniors may not exhibit typical signs of depression, such as sadness or tearfulness. Instead, their depression might manifest as:
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Increased physical complaints (such as pain or digestive issues) without a clear medical cause
- Cognitive decline that may be mistaken for dementia
- Social withdrawal or lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
These subtle symptoms can make late-life depression difficult to identify, leading to missed diagnoses and lack of treatment.
Why Are Seniors Overlooked for Depression Treatment?
Despite the high prevalence of depression in older adults, many seniors do not receive the care they need. They may resist seeking treatment due to feeling a stigma around mental health issues. Seniors on a fixed income may also be concerned about the cost for doctor visits and treatment costs. Many seniors may resist seeking treatment because they believe they’ve “already tried everything” without success and have given up hope of finding true relief from depression.
TMS – New Depression Therapy for Older Adults
As mentioned above, the FDA cleared TMS for treating depression in older adults last year. This is a major breakthrough in depression treatment for senior citizens, as TMS provides a safe and effective option for seniors who either do not respond well to antidepressants or cannot tolerate them due to side effects.
TMS is an outpatient, drug-free treatment that uses a stimulus/response mechanism to stimulate areas of the brain responsible for mood regulation. Unlike antidepressants, which take time to enter the bloodstream and can cause side effects like dizziness, weight gain, or gastrointestinal issues, TMS works by directly targeting brain activity without affecting other parts of the body. This makes it an especially attractive option for older adults who may already have challenges with declining physical health.
TMS Treats Depression in Older Adults
TMS therapy is particularly well-suited for seniors because:
- It has minimal side effects – The most common side effects are mild scalp discomfort or slight headaches, which typically improve as treatment continues.
- It does not interfere with existing medications – Since TMS is not a drug, there are no concerns about interactions with other medications seniors may be taking.
- It is effective for treatment-resistant depression – Many seniors have tried multiple antidepressants without success. TMS has been shown to help patients who do not respond to medication.
- It improves cognitive function – Some studies suggest that TMS may even enhance cognitive abilities, which is particularly beneficial for older adults experiencing memory issues.
- It is covered by Medicare – One of the biggest advantages for seniors is that Medicare covers TMS therapy, making it an accessible and affordable treatment option for many.
Depression Treatment for Older Adults in Colorado Springs
With Medicare covering TMS therapy, many seniors suffering from late life depression are wondering if TMS may be the right treatment for them. At Colorado Recovery Solutions, we can discuss your options and help you decide if TMS therapy is right for you.
If you or a loved one is struggling with depression (at any age), TMS may be a great option for you. Schedule an appointment today to speak with one of our expert mental health providers. We have three locations in Colorado Springs and a clinic location in Monument, making it easy and convenient to schedule an appointment near you.
Colorado Recovery Solutions is the leading psychiatry clinic in the Colorado Springs area, providing hope and help for mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. We offer the latest evidence-based mental health treatments, including TMS, ketamine therapy, ketamine assisted therapy, and medication.
Request your appointment at Colorado Recovery Solutions today.
