Combating seasonal depression is crucial, especially for seniors who may already be more vulnerable to mental health conditions. With the proper mental health regimen, emotional health in aging does not have to be difficult.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, an estimated 10 to 20% of the population suffers from seasonal affective disorder, commonly known as the "winter blues." Although seasonal depression can occur during any season, it is most common during the coldest part of the year.
Are you a senior in Chelmsford, MA, wondering how to beat the winter blues? In this guide, we will cover how emotional health can change as you age, the winter blues, and winter wellness ideas so you can enjoy a fulfilling winter season.
The "winter blues" is a colloquial term for seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Those suffering from SAD experience the typical symptoms of depression, but the cause is the change of the seasons.
Common shifts that happen in winter can trigger symptoms of seasonal affective disorder, such as:
Symptoms of the winter blues can range from mild to severe. Affected seniors may feel a higher degree of malaise or sadness, while others may slide into deeper depression and isolate themselves further.
The winter blues may not be completely unavoidable, but there are certainly steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms. Here are some key action steps to take to keep your mental health in check during the winter months:
Sunlight can be in short supply in winter, especially in New England. It is important to maintain optimal levels of Vitamin D to keep your body from suffering nutrient deficiencies.
If you cannot get outside during the day, consider investing in a light box or another device that mimics natural light. These can be incredibly helpful tools, especially if you need to wake up early in the morning.
Talk to your doctor if you suspect a Vitamin D deficiency. They may prescribe supplements to bring your levels up more quickly than natural exposure to sunlight.
Even when the weather is cold, try to get outdoors at least once a day if possible. Simply stepping outside your door and experiencing the brisk winter air can be a mood booster.
When you can hide your silhouette with bulky clothes, it is tempting to delve into unhealthy eating habits as temperatures dip. While indulging in your favorite sweet or snack every once in a while is inconsequential, making a habit out of it can have negative effects on your health.
Aim to eat a fruit or vegetable with every meal. If you want to snack, pair something you crave with a healthy option, such as apple slices and chocolate or cheese.
Animals tend to hibernate during the winter months, and it can be all too easy to curl up in bed and forfeit your usual exercise routine. However, it is still crucial to maintain an active lifestyle, even when you do not want to.
There are plenty of workouts that you can do from the comfort of your own home, such as:
Remember, if you want to begin a new exercise regimen, talk to your doctor beforehand. They may be able to recommend certain exercises or inform you of precautions to take surrounding different activities.
Massachusetts experiences true winters, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, accompanied by snow. This creates an abundance of potential for winter activities that can only be enjoyed during the coldest months of the year.
Chelmsford celebrates the beginning of the Christmas season in style. On the first Sunday of December, the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony is scheduled. The event occurs at Center Village, with perks such as:
Even getting outside and enjoying the breathtaking winter scenery can be a rejuvenating activity. Consider taking a walk around your senior living community and viewing the breathtaking snowy landscapes and winter wildlife.
Seniors face unique challenges during the winter. For example, increased isolation may be even more prevalent in seniors due to their inability to drive or mobility issues.
If you reside in an independent living community, make an extra effort to engage with other residents during the winter season. Social isolation can cause health issues, but increased socialization can have a positive effect and be a valuable senior mood support tool.
The "winter blues," also known as seasonal depression, often have symptoms similar to major depressive disorder, but the two are very different. Seasonal depression occurs during a designated part of the year, usually winter.
Conversely, major depressive disorder can strike at any time. It may coincide with seasonal depression or affect sufferers during the winter, but symptoms may not get better as the winter season fades.
Treatment methods for seasonal depression and major depressive disorder can vary as well. Often, depression is treated with antidepressant medication that must be taken daily to be effective. Remedies for seasonal depression might include more natural solutions, such as supplementing with Vitamin D.
Are you still wondering how to beat the winter blues as a senior in Chelmsford, MA? With this guide, you can cultivate an enriching lifestyle to maintain seasonal mental wellness.
At Summer Place Independent Living, we are committed to providing a high quality of life for our residents all year round. With amenities such as walking paths, a private dining room, and spa services, we ensure you have access to all of the resources you need for a happy and healthy Chelmsford, MA retirement life.
Are you ready to discover all that our beautiful community has to offer? Contact us today to learn more, or visit our campus in Chelmsford, MA, to see it in person. We can't wait to hear from you!