During the winter season, many seniors experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), sometimes referred to as “the winter blues.” SAD is a type of depression that is associated with a specific time of year, especially fall and winter. Mental health professionals don’t conclusively know the cause of SAD—the most popular theory is that a decrease in sun exposure alters the brain’s chemistry, leading to depressive symptoms.
Fortunately, there are many mental health strategies that have been shown to help people experiencing SAD manage their symptoms, including boosting light exposure and strengthening social bonds.
Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder
In order to effectively support loved ones experiencing SAD, caregivers need to recognize its symptoms. Exact symptoms vary from person to person, but the most common symptoms include:
- Reduced energy level
- Trouble focusing
- Irritability
- Loss of interest in hobbies
- Social withdrawal
- Feelings of guilt or hopelessness
- Oversleeping
- Headaches
- Weight gain
Tips for Managing SAD
Mental health professionals have developed several coping strategies to help those experiencing SAD, most of which revolve around boosting natural light exposure and engaging in positive interactions with others. Properly executed, these coping strategies can significantly boost your loved one’s quality of life during the winter.
Boost Natural Light Exposure
The decline in natural light during winter is thought to be a major contributing factor to Seasonal Affective Disorder. Increasing the amount of natural light your loved one is exposed to can help rebalance the brain and make symptoms more manageable.
During the day, your loved one should keep their curtains open to let in the sun. In the evening, consider using specially designed light-therapy lamps. These lamps imitate sunlight and have been shown to be an effective treatment for SAD.
Increase Social Connection
When seniors start to feel down during the winter months, they may isolate themselves from others. Consider spending extra time with your loved ones to prevent social withdrawal, which can exacerbate SAD.
Along with your friends and family, put together a schedule of regular visits throughout the winter season to make sure your loved one knows how much you care. You can also encourage your loved one to participate in social activities in a nursing home setting, such as bingo nights, movie screenings, or coffee hours.
Explore New Hobbies
Boredom can be a contributing factor to SAD. Encouraging your loved one to engage in their favorite activities can take their mind off of the gloomy weather and boost their mood. There are plenty of hobbies that are easy for older adults to dive into, including knitting or crocheting, painting, drawing, reading, and playing board games.
