Anonymous wrote:My mom was in a serious depression for several years, but then joined a senior activity center that she goes to daily for 5 hours, and she’s the happiest I’ve seen in years.

+1 the senior centers are a amazing around here!!!

OP have you tried this?

Another vote for socializing. Also, getting outside, whatever level of exercise she can manage, and hobbies.

I have depression and the meds can make you feel really foggy. Taking them at bedtime can make a huge difference. Also, it can take several weeks for them to work and to find the right dosage, so she needs to stick it out.

My mom was in a serious depression for several years, but then joined a senior activity center that she goes to daily for 5 hours, and she’s the happiest I’ve seen in years.

You need to crush the pills sorry

I don't actually "have" a 90 yr old but I am friends with a woman who turns 90 this year. She lives alone, her husband died some years ago, she is also very sharp mentally. I play cards with her a few times a week, have gone to lunch with her, we attend the same book discussion group, I have visited her just to chat, she does many more activities without me such as walking everyday, playing mahjong with her group of like-aged friends, goes to the gym regularly. She's old enough to be my mother but I find her to be delightful and a good friend.

Maybe your mother needs some social activities, physical activities, friends, books to read or listen to, a computer or Ipad to play with? Can you help her achieve any of this?

She is 90 and living with us. She is so depressed. She won’t take medication for it. I told her doctor and he suggested CBD to see if that helped. I think it helps her sleep but does nothing for her depression and anxiety.

She has no signs of clinical dementia and is fully cognizant. Really sharp and knows everything going on around her. I don’t feel right crushing up pills and putting them into food like others here have suggested when she is fully aware of her decisions.

It just seems so sad to live our your remaining years so unhappy. But I don’t think there is anything I can do to help except take my own antidepressants so the situation doesn’t cause me to spiral.

Does anyone out there have a happy 90 year old? To what do you attribute it?