There is a word for senior people who seem to lose interest in their life. You may have heard it, it is called Anhedonia and it is when older people start to withdraw from things they once were interested in. It is also a common symptom of depression.

As a live-in carer we may notice that our client says more frequently that they are not interested, or that they don’t feel like doing something. They may express a distinct disinterest in things they previously enjoyed. 

Studies have shown that anhedonia is often overlooked in older adults although it is quite common, and often related to mental health conditions.

Signs and symptoms of anhedonia:

• Negative feelings towards themselves and maybe towards others
• Withdrawal from previously enjoyed activities
• Withdrawal from previous relationships
• Lack of relationships
• Less emotional display

Can we help deal with anhedonia?

Yes, there are some things that we can do to improve the situation.

Show empathy

Be sincere about your concern for your client. Listen to them and ask if they are troubled. If so, ask what you could do to make this better. Talking is always a good place to start, or rather, letting your client talk while you listen.

Encourage interaction

Seniors, or indeed anyone who suffers from this will have a hard time mixing with other people. This only serves to worsen the situation so gentle encouragement is needed. 

Perhaps invite one person around for coffee in the morning, when your clients energy levels are highest. Keep visits short until they are comfortable with longer times.

Suggest an outing

If your client used to enjoy gardening, suggest a trip to a local garden centre to loot at plants and perhaps buy a few.

Cinemas are another great way to get your client out of the house and while they may not be in other peoples company, they will come in contact with them, which is good. 

Work on a good sleeping habit

Sleep deprivation can lead to fatigue which, interestingly, can make anhedonia worse. Sleeping better will help to improve cognitive function and also work well in boosting energy levels.

Try a little exercise

Done regularly, exercise will help a person who suffers from anhedonia. It will also help to combat stress and improve mood.

Even adding a short walk to a daily routine will increase activity levels.

Watch the diet

Anhedonia is linked to depression, which goes hand in hand with low serotonin levels. Making small changes in a diet can improve this tremendously. 

Adding fresh fruits, whole grain bread, fish and even dark chocolate can boost these levels. If in doubt, talk to the doctor who can refer your client to a nutritionist.

Final thoughts

It is all important that if you feel your client is withdrawing, that you talk to them and try to find out what they feel, what is bothering them and why they are less interested in things they used to enjoy.

Once you have ascertained the reasons behind these feelings you can take small steps to improve things every day. One step at a time, and slowly, you will improve your client’s overall interest in what they used to enjoy.

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