Feeling down from time to time is something many of us experience, regardless of age. But feeling persistently sad, hopeless, or lacking enjoyment in life is not an inevitable part of getting older.
That said, there are some challenges that can become more common as we age, and these can affect how we feel emotionally.
Changes in routine when you end paid work, changes in health, reduced mobility, caring responsibilities, financial pressures, and the loss of loved ones can all have a significant impact on wellbeing. Experiencing sadness, grief, loneliness or worry in response to these change is a natural human reaction.
Wellbeing is about more than physical health
Western tradition has tended to see our physical health as being separate to anything else in our lives. Yet we are becoming increasingly aware that our wellbeing is influenced by a range of interconnected factors, including our mental, emotional, social, physical and spiritual health.
This idea is reflected in the Māori model of health, Te Whare Tapa Whā. The model describes wellbeing as being made up of four connected dimensions:
- Taha tinana – physical health
- Taha hinengaro – mental and emotional health
- Taha whānau – family and social connections
- Taha wairua – spiritual wellbeing
When one area is under strain, it can affect the others as well. For example, ongoing health problems may affect your mood, or feeling lonely may affect your motivation to stay active. Grief can impact your emotional and physical wellbeing.
Why ageing can sometimes increase the risk of feeling down
As we get older, our social networks often change. Friends may move away, become less mobile, or pass away, while family members may be busy with work or raising children. These changes can leave people feeling isolated, even when they are surrounded by people who care about them.
Research consistently shows that social connection plays an important role in maintaining wellbeing throughout later life. Losing meaningful connections or feeling disconnected from others can contribute to symptoms of depression and anxiety.
When to seek help
It's important to distinguish between depression and occasional feelings of sadness. You may want to talk to your GP if you've been feeling down most of the time for more than a couple of weeks, particularly if you are:
- losing interest in activities you usually enjoy
- withdrawing from friends and family
- struggling with sleep
- feeling tired all the time
- finding it difficult to concentrate
- feeling hopeless or overwhelmed
Depression affects many older adults, but it is often overlooked because people mistakenly assume low mood is simply a part of ageing. The good news is that depression can be treated, and support is available.
- If you find that these feelings are not resolving get relevant skilled or professional help e.g., counsellor, pastoral care, and community support services.
- If you suspect you are depressed or know an unaddressed health issue lies at the heart of your problems, see your doctor.
- Find out more about depression at depression.org.nz
Updated: 8 Jul 2026