I am a caregiver for an elderly 81 year old man. If we ask how is he today,his answer is all I want to do is die. We have tried to get him to talk to a psychologist about it; he refuses. What can I do? It's sad and depressing being around him. Nothing makes him happy. Family has tried.
I'm not sure what your patient has gone through, but after my father's stroke he was also like this. It was a lot to take. I thought he had grumpy old man syndrome. My dad was the same way and had a leave me alone attitude. I know the family is trying but I wonder if maybe his medical conditions and his medications are contributing to his negative attitude.
Like Golden has suggested maybe he needs a different medication to help him. A better diet? More outings? More friends? I really regret giving up on my dad towards the end. It felt so defeating that nothing I did could make him happy. I hope you find a better answer for your patient.
I agree with the suggestions of talking to his family about an antidepressant. Or if he's already on one, trying a different one.