How To Help Seniors Avoid The Winter Blues
About 5% of people are affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder, sometimes called the “winter blues”. The short days of winter, cold rainy, or snowy weather, and the holidays can cause some seniors to become depressed. Seniors who have recently lost a spouse, friend, or relative maybe even more at risk for this type of seasonal sadness. Respite care providers are a big help in preventing seasonal depression in seniors.
When the weather is bad and seniors can’t get out much they can become lonely and isolated. But seniors who have respite care get daily visits from a friendly and cheerful caregiver who can help seniors with chores, visit with them, share meals, and check on their physical and mental health.
In addition to getting respite care for a senior parent you can also help your senior parent avoid the winter blues by:
Respite Care Plymouth MI – How To Help Seniors Avoid The Winter Blues
Helping Them Get Out
Take your senior parent out shopping, out to lunch, or take them to the library or senior center where they can visit with other seniors. Seniors who can get out of the house to participate in activities are much less likely to develop depression.
Create a Cozy Environment
Surroundings play a significant role in influencing mood. Help your senior parent by creating a warm and inviting living space. Make sure they have lots of soft blankets, comfortable furniture, and things like books, puzzles, and activities to keep them busy. Adding soft lighting, such as lamps with warm-toned bulbs, can mimic the gentle glow of sunlight, lifting spirits during the darker winter days.
Stock The Cupboard With Hearty Comfort Food
Seniors who are experiencing symptoms of seasonal depression may not want to eat, and that can lead to malnutrition. Stock the pantry with soups, stew mixes, and delicious comfort foods that seniors will enjoy on cold days.
Encourage Exercise
Regular exercise is a powerful antidote to winter blues. Help seniors find suitable activities that match their physical abilities, such as indoor exercises, yoga, or even gentle walks in well-lit areas. Physical activity not only improves mood but also enhances overall health and reduces the risk of seasonal affective disorder.
Arrange For Transportation
Winter conditions can make transportation challenging for seniors, especially if they have mobility issues. Provide support by offering rides to essential appointments, grocery shopping, or social outings. Ensure that their home is equipped with necessary supplies and consider arranging delivery services for groceries and medications.
Celebrate The Holidays
Engage seniors in the joy of the season by participating in holiday celebrations and activities. This could involve decorating their living space, cooking together, or attending local events. Celebrating traditions fosters a sense of connection and joy during the winter months. If you have family traditions that are important to your senior parent do those things together. Decorate a holiday tree, bake some cookies, watch holiday movies, or enjoy some holiday treats together. Helping your senior parent focus on the joy of the seasons will help them keep those winter blues at bay.
Sources: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/seasonal-affective-disorder
https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/seasonal-affective-disorder
If you or an aging loved one is considering Respite Care Services in Plymouth MI, please get in touch with the caring staff at No Place Like Home Health, LLC today. 734-259-4200
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