Effexor may manage depression in seniors who could be susceptible to fraud

By using Effexor, elderly patients may be able to manage depression that researchers believe makes them potential targets for financial fraud.

A recent study conducted at Wayne State University, in conjunction with the Illinois Institute of Technology, found that elderly patients with depression are more likely to be taken advantage of than seniors without the condition. Recently published, the report is the first to explore health factors connected to monetary fraud.

"Those in the clinical study showed characteristics of extreme depression symptoms and perceived low social-status fulfillment, thus showing they were more vulnerable to the experience of theft of scams," said Peter Lichtenberg, Ph.D., of Wayne State University who was the lead author of the paper.

Authors of the study that included 4,400 seniors, discovered that high depression levels and low social-status fulfillment were linked to a 226 percent increase in financial exploitation.

The researchers indicated that the data show the elderly population should be regularly assessed for the possibility of financial fraud by clinicians during visits.

Spotting depression in seniors
Although the condition is widespread among the elderly, depression often goes unnoticed and untreated, the National Institutes of Health states, which means older loved ones could be at risk for monetary theft.

Many life events related to aging can result in the onset of depression, which caretakers and relatives should be aware of. Moves away from a long-time residence to an assisted living facility or retirement home can sometimes lead to depression in the elderly. Also, chronic pain can lead to depressive symptoms. When children move out or a loved one passes away, seniors' risk for depression increases, as is the case when there is a decrease in mobility or general loss of personal independence.

Experts at the NIH linked many illnesses with depression, including heart disease, Alzheimer's disease and cancer. They also warn against heavy reliance on certain medications, as overuse of drugs such as sleep aids can worsen depression.

Because common symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite and trouble sleeping can be normal aspects of the aging process, detecting depression in the elderly is challenging. Always pay special attention to the habits of older loved ones and consult with a physician if depression symptoms of any kind are displayed.

If so, Effexor may help manage the debilitating effects of the illness, and can be purchased at a Canadian online pharmacy that offers a lower rate than most American pharmacies.