Seasonal affective disorder or SAD is something that can affect people of all ages. However, it is more likely to affect seniors, especially if they are retired and have mobility issues, both of which can prevent them from being social. SAD is also caused by a lack of vitamin D, and since seniors are more prone to have this deficiency, they are more likely to be affected by SAD.
There are two types of seasonal affective disorder. The more common kind is the one that occurs during the autumn and winter months. Meanwhile, the less common one occurs during the spring and summer months. However, keep in mind that seasonal affective disorder is not the same as having the winter blues because it is much more intense.
Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder in Seniors
Here are some of the signs of seasonal affective disorder in seniors:
Feeling Sad and Depressed
Of course, everyone feels sad and depressed some of the time. However, people with SAD feel this way throughout the day on most days, as soon as SAD sets in, in autumn or spring.
Feeling Uninterested in Doing Anything
Once SAD sets in, seniors might not feel like doing the things that they used to do. This includes doing chores, socializing with friends and family members, and participating in hobbies and activities.
Having Less Energy Than Before
People get less active as they get older, especially if they have mobility issues. But if a senior is affected by SAD, then the decrease in energy occurs exactly at the time when SAD begins. This is generally when autumn begins because this symptom is more likely to affect people with winter-onset SAD.
Feeling Agitated and Anxious
This particular symptom is more likely to affect people with summer-onset SAD. While people who have winter-onset SAD tend to get sluggish, people with summer-onset SAD move in the opposite direction and get irritable, agitated, and anxious.
Sleep-Related Issues
People who have winter-onset SAD tend to sleep a lot more than necessary. Meanwhile, people who have summer-onset SAD might have trouble sleeping. They might not get the number of hours of sleep that they need.
Appetite-Related Issues
People who have winter-onset SAD are particularly attracted to carbohydrate-rich foods and might end up overeating and gaining weight during the autumn and winter months. On the other hand, seniors with summer-onset SAD might lose their appetite and might end up losing weight.
Concentration Difficulties
Seniors who love reading or doing puzzles might suddenly find that they are having difficulty concentrating due to seasonal changes. They might find themselves staring into space or just taking a long time to do a task that requires concentration.
Feeling Hopeless and Having Low Self-Esteem
A senior might suddenly start feeling like everything is going wrong in their life and that things are not likely to improve. They might also feel like everything that goes wrong is their fault, and they might blame themselves.
Difficulty Making Decisions
A senior with SAD might be unable to make even small decisions. They might decide to do one thing, then change their mind and do something else entirely. This can be a pattern that continues throughout the day.
Feeling Suicidal
In extreme cases, a senior might feel so sad, depressed, and hopeless that they don't have the will to live anymore. They might start thinking about committing suicide.
It's best to take note of seasonal affective disorder, in yourself or your senior, as soon as possible. Don't wait for the feelings of listlessness or depression to go away by themselves because this may result in their intensification instead. Consult a doctor who may recommend light therapy, psychotherapy, or a more active lifestyle.
How Senior Helpers Can Help
Our caregivers who work with seniors in St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, Gulf Port, South Pasadena, and the surrounding areas can keep an eye on your senior's changes in mood, appetite, and concentration levels which will help you to spot SAD as soon as it begins. They can also make sure that a senior with SAD takes their medication or gets their light therapy, as instructed by their doctor.
Contact us to learn more about the symptoms of and treatment for SAD.