Winter is a miserable time of year for many individuals, and it’s not just because it makes getting around more challenging. It’s possible that the “winter blues” are actually seasonal depression. It’s also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This is a severe form of depression that typically strikes people in the winter. Those whose ability to spend time outdoors is restricted by inclement weather, diminished mobility, or illnesses are more susceptible to seasonal depression. Find out what seasonal depression is, its common symptoms, how it affects seniors, and three ways that it is managed effectively in retirement communities in Impact, TX.
What is Seasonal Depression?
According to scientists, the shorter winter days and decreased sun exposure might alter the levels of serotonin and melatonin in the brain. Depression symptoms may be brought on by these biochemical changes.
Late fall or early winter is when SAD often begins, and it typically ends in spring or summer, when there is a lot of sunshine.
Symptoms of Seasonal Depression
Seasonal affective disorder symptoms can be mild at first and get worse as winter goes on. They often include:
- Lacking energy
- Loss of enthusiasm for once-loved hobbies
- Agitation and irritability
- Increased need for sleep or sleep issues
- Difficulty concentrating
- Developing a social phobia or a desire to be alone
- A sense of worthlessness or despair
- Suicidal thoughts
Here are 3 ways that retirement communities combat seasonal depression in their elderly members.
Recognising the Symptoms
The dedicated team at retirement communities is often trained to watch out for signs of residents feeling unwell or deviating from their usual routines. This is paramount, especially during the winter, as one could fall into social isolation if left to their own devices. Having that extra pair of eyes watch over your loved one is reassuring, as it will ensure that they get the help they need early on during the onset of seasonal depression.
Increased Exposure to Light
Increased exposure to natural light is one of the first steps in preventing and controlling the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Senior assisted living enables residents to benefit from added assistance with daily living activities, including improving their environment to ward against seasonal depression. Here are a few measures taken:
- Lifting window covers so that more light can enter the apartment
- Ensuring that residents spend the majority of their time in well-lit areas of the community.
- Encouraging residents to spend daily time outside in the sunshine. That might mean going for a 10-minute stroll or just going outside to the community garden.
- Using light therapy and adjusting the intensity of lights. This is useful especially when severe weather traps everyone inside for weeks. It is also helpful for those with physical impairments.
Encouraging Physical Activity
Regular physical activity, including exercise, lowers general tension and anxiety, which lessens SAD symptoms. Exercise also helps to tire the body, which enhances the quality and length of sleep. In retirement communities, physical activity is encouraged and easily accessible as part of the health and wellness program. Seniors can participate in yoga or exercise classes, lifting their moods and reducing the likelihood of developing seasonal depression.
If you or your loved one frequently suffers from seasonal depression or other physical ailments, consider how moving to a retirement community might help you feel less lonely and improve your wellbeing!
