With the shorter days and darker, colder weather finally here, it’s not uncommon for people to experience some kinds of physical, emotional and mental shifts. Significant cases are signs of a condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder, unironically also known as SAD, which seniors can be increasingly susceptible to.
What Causes Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Medically a type of depression, SAD typically sets in at the start of the fall and uplifts by spring. Its symptoms can include difficulty focusing, significant changes in appetite, weight gain, less socialization, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, lack of energy, irritability plus feelings of sadness or worthlessness.
You do not have to suffer from bipolar depression, or other mental illnesses, to experience or be diagnosed with Seasonal Affective Disorder, and vice versa.
Factors that can make seniors more susceptible to symptoms of SAD can include (but aren’t limited to) changes in sleep habits, mood changes caused by medications, less exposure to natural light, social isolation and suffering from chronic health issues.
How to Treat Seasonal Affective Disorder
One of the first major steps in alleviating a senior’s symptoms of SAD is to increase their exposure to sunlight. If they live in an area that is commonly cloudy in the fall and winter, get them outside anyway. Natural light on cloudy days is still effective at combatting the effects of SAD.
Next, you’ll want to ensure they’re still getting regular exercise. It’s easy to lose track of exercise routines outside of summer, when in the sunny months it just feels natural to be active outside or walking around attractions and common destinations.
Taking a daily walk while it’s safe to do so outside is encouraged. If limited to indoor activity, look into stretching or chair exercises, the ability to go swimming, indoor walking spaces or yoga.
Encouraging your senior family member to maintain personal connections can be vital in overcoming SAD symptoms. This step can range from participation in social groups, activity nights or something as simple as a regular phone call or Facetime with friends or family.
How Just Like Family Can Help
At Just Like Family, our caregiving team understands the ongoing challenges and changes seniors can face, especially those tied to mental health. We’re here to provide the support and companionship they need to improve their health and well-being, including the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder.
We offer a range of services, short and long-term, including personal care, companionship, outings, household support and more.
For more information, contact your local Just Like Family Home Care office. You can also call us at 778-244-7742 (Lower Mainland) or 250-888-8211 (Island Locations).
Disclaimer: For more serious cases of SAD, or other potential types of depression, consult a healthcare provider. The information provided on our blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.