Learn How to Support Older Loved Ones Who May Be Struggling
Here are some subtle signs of depression in older adults:
• A noticeable sense of sadness, anxiety, or apathy
• Unusual sleeping patterns
• Difficulty concentrating or feeling confused often
• Tearfulness
• Isolating from the family
• Loss of interest in traditions or activities
• Neglecting personal hygiene
• Sudden changes in appetite or weight
• Low energy or unusual fatigue
For many families, the holidays are the one time of year when everyone gathers under the same roof. You share meals, exchange gifts, and catch up on life. But sometimes, in between the laughter and familiar traditions, you notice things you didn’t expect. Maybe your mom seemed quieter than usual. Maybe your dad slept through most of the day. Maybe a grandparent who once lit up the room now seemed distant or withdrawn.
If you visited family this season with a lingering sense that something felt “off,” you’re not alone. These moments often become the first clues that an older loved one may be experiencing depression.
During the aging process, life events, health challenges, and the loss of friends or family can weigh heavily on emotional well-being. According to the National Institute on Aging, depression is a serious condition that affects mood, behavior and thought patterns. It can create ongoing feelings of sadness, apathy or emptiness, often triggered by trauma, loss or health issues.
Depression in older adults is more common than many people realize. About 6 million adults 65 and older are living with depression, yet the signs often get brushed off as just aging, stress, or physical decline. That’s why noticing these early changes matters, especially after the holidays when families have more time to observe their loved ones closely.
Signs You May Have Noticed During Your Holiday Visit
Pay attention to these signs of depression that could occur with your loved one:
• A noticeable sense of sadness, anxiety, or apathy
• Sleeping far more or far less than usual
• Difficulty concentrating or feeling more confused than normal
• Tearfulness
• Isolating from the family or staying in their room
• Loss of interest in traditions or activities they once loved
• Neglecting personal hygiene
• Sudden changes in appetite or weight
• Low energy or unusual fatigue
Seeing these changes can feel alarming but recognizing them is the first step toward helping your loved one regain comfort, confidence, and emotional balance.
This Is Where SYNERGY HomeCare Can Step In
SYNERGY HomeCare understands that caring for an older adult means paying attention to the whole person. Our Total Well-Being program was created specifically to support physical, emotional, and social wellness, all of which play a meaningful role in reducing the effects of depression.
Here’s how the program can support your loved one:
Strengthening Physical Well-Being
Medication Reminders – Consistent routines help reduce stress and confusion, allowing seniors to stay on track with treatments that support their overall health.
Fall and Injury Prevention – Light exercises and mobility support help older adults regain confidence in their bodies. Feeling steady and capable again can lift mood and restore a sense of independence.
Overall Care and Companionship – Personal caregivers assist with daily activities and also provide emotional reassurance and a steady presence. For someone feeling overwhelmed or disconnected, this support can create a sense of comfort and safety.
Supporting Emotional Well-Being
Companion Care – Regular visits from a caregiver offer meaningful connection. Walks, games, and casual conversations help reduce loneliness and bring warmth back into daily life.
Wellness Check-Ins – These timely check-in calls provide reassurance and remind seniors that they’re not alone, even on quieter days.
Mindfulness Exercises – Relaxation techniques such as guided breathing help calm racing thoughts and encourage a more positive outlook.
Building Social Well-Being
Social Engagement – Caregivers help seniors reconnect with family, revive old hobbies, or explore community activities. Staying socially active can strengthen cognitive function and reduce the emotional weight of isolation.
Support for Families, Too
The Total Well-Being program also supports families who may be feeling overwhelmed or unsure of what to do next. Respite care gives families a chance to rest and recharge while knowing that their loved one is in compassionate, capable hands.
If you left the holidays concerned about an older loved one, now’s the time to reach out, ask questions and explore support. Depression is treatable, and early attention can make all the difference.
To learn more about how SYNERGY HomeCare can help your family, take a look at our Total Well-Being guide or call (877) 432-2692.
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SYNERGY HomeCare offers no obligation home assessments. Find a location near you or contact us to learn how we can provide additional support to you and your loved ones.
