Other side-effects of anti-depressants which put a halt to the sexual function include the lack of ability to erect in men (one study showed that 82% of men who had erectile difficulties admitted symptoms of depression), and the lack of desire to even have sex after taking these anti-depressants (Cartier, 2003). A second is just the plain fact that elderly who are depressed do not want to participate in any activities, including sex. They lose their libido. By being depressed, the motivation to having sex or performing in the sexual function is just plain removed. If you do not have energy enough to even feel happy, then it is without question that elderly who are depressed will not perform in sexual activities (Soldz, 2003). Finally, sexual functions of the family are impacted when an elderly member is depressed because of mental deterioration of the spouse of the depressed member. If they are trying so hard to help out the depressed one, they may have no energy to go and perform sexual functions, even if the depressed member wanted to (Ducharme, 2002). So it goes both ways, the sexual function is affected by both the depressed member and their spouse, by loss of desire, physical inability, and lack of energy.
Economically, depression in the elderly has a excruciating effect on both the nuclear family and the extended family. First the effect on the nuclear family of the elderly (wife, husband, kids etc.). Studies have shown that those who are depressed experience a 60% increased risk in becoming unemployed and a 90% increased risk in the family income decreasing over the next 5 years (Marchello, 2003). However, as most seniors, being over 65 years of age, do not work, then this is not quite a large problem. But, the major problem of the elderly depression on the economic function of the family is the cost of both treatment and medicine. If the family is not covered by a good health insurance plan, then treatment such as therapy, medicine, and appointments with local doctors, as well as hospitalization costs can begin to range towards the expensive end of the spectrum.
