Late-life depression (geriatric depression)
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Barkha ChikaraChief Medical Officer, MD (Psychiatry) from NIMHANS · Last reviewed October 2026Late-life depression is depression in older adults. It is often missed because tiredness, poor sleep, aches or forgetfulness are blamed on ageing, and sadness may not be obvious. It is not a normal part of getting older, and it can be treated.
About 1 in 10 adults in India lives with a mental disorder (National Mental Health Survey, 2015-16). You are not alone.
At a glance
Common signs
- Persistent low mood
- Loss of interest in activities
- Fatigue and withdrawal
- Cognitive complaints
How it is usually treated
- Antidepressants
- CBT adapted for older adults
- Problem-solving therapy
- Social engagement interventions
Where to start
A free pre-consultation call, then a video assessment with a psychiatrist. In danger? Call 112, or Tele-MANAS on 14416.
Book your free pre-consultation callRegistered clinicians: psychiatrists with their State Medical Council, psychologists with the Rehabilitation Council of India.
Signs
Tick any that feel familiar. This is not a diagnosis, only a clinician can assess you.
0 ticked. If these have been with you for a while, a free pre-consultation call is a good next step.
Book your free pre-consultation callHow people often describe it
- “My father seems low and has lost interest in everything”
- “My mother sleeps poorly and does not eat well”
- “He says he is a burden”
- “She has withdrawn since retirement or loss”
People who live with late-life depression may also notice memory changes, sleep problems or generalised anxiety. If any of these sound familiar, mention them to your clinician so your plan can cover them.
When to get help soon
Get help now if an older person talks about wanting to die or harming themselves. Call Tele-MANAS on 14416 or 112. Stay with them.
How it is diagnosed
A doctor reviews medical conditions and any current treatments, since many illnesses and some treatments affect mood, and a psychiatrist assesses mood, memory and thinking. Depression can look like early dementia and the two can occur together.
Treatment and support
- CBT and problem-solving therapy adapted for older adults
- Staying active, social and in a regular routine
- Support for loneliness and bereavement
- Reviewing physical health and pain
- Care for the family
How Mindly helps
Mindly's psychiatrists can assess mood in older adults by video, with a family member present if the person wishes. All care is online, by video.
Your first appointment
A psychiatrist speaks with the person and a family member, and asks about mood, memory, sleep, medicines and other health conditions.
Who is involved
A psychiatrist works with family caregivers and, where needed, your other doctors, because medicines and health conditions interact.
Between sessions
Reviews are simple and regular, with attention to safety, routines and caregiver strain.
What to expect
- Free pre-consultation callWe take your history and details, and match you with the right clinician.
- First consultationA video call in your language, with a clinician who already has your report.
- Your planYour clinician agrees a plan with you: therapy, medicine or both, as suits you.
- Follow-up reviewsRegular check-ins, and your plan is adjusted as you recover.
- Staying wellSupport to keep you well and catch early signs of a setback.
Every Mindly plan includes a second opinion from our Chief Medical Officer, a diagnosis-first approach and regular tracking of your recovery. How Mindly care works
Book your free pre-consultation callYour privacy and confidentiality. What you share with Mindly Health stays between you and your care team. Your conversations, reports and messages are treated as confidential and shared only with the team members involved in your care, apart from the limited cases where the law requires it or someone's safety is at serious risk. Read our Privacy Policy and your rights under the Mental Healthcare Act.
Common questions
Is depression normal in old age?
No. Many older people are content. Depression is an illness, not a normal part of ageing.
How is it different from dementia?
Both cause memory and concentration problems. Depression usually has a clear low mood and responds to treatment, but they can occur together, so assessment matters.
Why is it missed?
Symptoms are often put down to ageing or physical illness.
If you or someone near you is in danger, call 112. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416. Mindly Health is not an emergency service.
Clinicians with a focus in this area
Dr. Dhritiman DasCo-Founder & Head of Community, Psychiatrist
Dr. Samarth S ShettyPsychiatrist
Dr. Nevedita DasPsychiatrist - Telepsychiatry & Evidence-Based Care
Online care in your city
Every consultation is by video, from wherever you are. Choose your city to see how it works.