Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can make winter especially challenging for seniors, but there are simple ways to boost mood and stay engaged:
• Maximize sunlight
• Stay social
• Exercise
• Eat well
• Create a cozy environment
• Talk to your doctor
• Get professional support from caregivers
Shorter days, colder weather, and fewer hours of sunlight can make winter tough, especially for older adults. These factors often trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is more than just a normal case of the blues. A SAD episode is a chronic, longer-term type of depression that can affect energy levels, sleep, appetite, and overall mood.
Unlike more serious cases of depression, though, there are some easier fixes for seniors to reduce the likelihood of suffering from SAD. Here are some to try:
1. Maximize Natural Light
Sometimes referred to as “light therapy,” getting natural light can do wonders for your mood. Open the blinds, sit near windows, or get some fresh air whenever possible. If the weather is too harsh, you can also look into buying a specialized light box that can give you a daily dose of sunshine. Since so many adults also suffer from SAD, there are plenty of options at most online retailers.
2. Stay Social
It’s easy to hole up and isolate yourself in the dark days of winter, but this only emphasizes the effects of SAD. Encourage regular visits from friends, family, or caregivers. Even phone calls, texts, or social media messaging can help you feel connected and supported.
3. Keep Moving
Exercise improves mood, regardless of the time of year. Winter-friendly activities can include light yoga, stretching, indoor walks or jogs, or online fitness classes. Ten minutes of movement each day can alleviate negative feelings.
4. Maintain a Nutritious Diet
If you’ve established a strong dietary routine, don’t give in to your sugary, comfort cravings just because you’re stuck inside. Stay on top of your fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Caregivers can often help with meal planning and meal prep to keep up your nutritional intake and emotional well-being.
5. Create a Cozy Environment
Since you’re likely to be inside during the winter more than any other time of year, make sure your home is somewhere you want to be. If you’re a holiday fanatic, put up decorations to uplift your mood. If you have a green thumb, buy some indoor plants to take care of for the season. Even warm lighting, scented candles, or cozy throw blankets can make you feel much more content spending time indoors.
6. Talk to Your Doctor About Supplements
Most primary care physicians assess older adults for symptoms of SAD at their regular checkups. When you’re speaking with your doctor, let them know how you honestly feel, and they can help you out. Often, your doctor can recommend vitamin D supplements that can be used in conjunction with your normal medications, or they can also recommend alternative supplements to boost your spirits.
7. Bring in Support When You Need It
Doctors aren’t the only ones who can help with feelings of sadness, withdrawal, or isolation. Family members or professional caregivers are also a viable option that can help provide companionship and liven up your daily routines.
SYNERGY HomeCare’s team of compassionate caregivers is trained to help seniors combat feelings of depression, and they’re always on call to help you feel more engaged, safe, and supported throughout the season. Click here to learn more about in-home care services, or call 877-432-2692 for more info.
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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.
