It's hard to believe that the end of Daylight Saving Time is here. Those of us who have lived in the Midwest for years know those extra hours of daylight in the morning and evening are replaced with shorter days, but we never really get used to it. These darker and colder days can become even harder for senior loved ones, especially if they live alone.
The lack of sunshine is emotionally hard for almost everyone in St. Louis, but it may be especially difficult for a locked one who is aging and may no longer have the freedom to drive or participate in outdoor activities without assistance. This can leave them feeling isolated and restless, which can lead to depression and anxiety. As a caregiver, it's essential to keep your senior loved one's quality of life as high as possible throughout the year so that you can ensure their happiness and safety at home.
One thing that won't decline with age is your ability to have fun, which is why it's important to keep senior loved ones engaged and active during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter and outdoor activities are few and far between due to inclement weather. Luckily, there are plenty of undertakings seniors can enjoy to ensure they continue experiencing regular socialization and physical activity during this time of year.
1. In-Home Activities
Shorter days mean less daylight and more time indoors, which can be a problem for seniors who need to maintain their physical activity and social interactions in Ballwin. There are plenty of activities that can help them have fun while staying active. Board games like Scrabble or Monopoly, puzzles such as Sodoku or crosswords, and knitting projects are all great ways to stay mentally engaged.
2. Nature-Related Activities
If they enjoy gardening outdoors in the summer consider starting an indoor herb garden or planting flowers in a pot to keep indoors. Watering them daily can also help remind them of gardening on a warm day! Find different activities that involve nature without going outside in Arnold, such as bird-watching through a window or even painting flowers on a canvas. Consider buying a pet so they have something furry (or feathered) to love while they're home alone. If they're not able to care for a pet, fish is a good alternative! Studies show that watching a fish tank for 5 minutes a day lowers stress and depression.
3. Virtual Learning
Music lessons online can be a great way to enjoy the same benefits as being in a class but from the comfort of your own home. Virtual support groups in Ballwin are also a viable option for socializing without ever having to leave the house. With these tools, short days won't feel so long for your senior loved one!
Extra Care for Shorter Days
In addition to these activities, you may want to consider the following:
- Talk to a doctor about adding a multivitamin or a Vitamin D pill to your loved one's daily schedule. With no sunshine, many of us need supplements to get our daily dose.
- Try to continue outdoor activities. It benefits our aging friends and family members who have active routines to be able to keep active throughout the fall and winter months. Walking at your local recreation center in Arnold, mall-walking, or even a trip to the can release endorphins and help with sleep as well.
- Don't forget about the usual routine of medication, eating healthy and drinking enough water, and having a regular bedtime.
There is no one size fits all solution to stop shorter days from affecting your elderly loved one’s quality of life during this season. Try a couple of these ideas- a few at a time so as to not overwhelm- and stick with what works for your loved one!
If you are in St. Louis, Ballwin, Fenton, or Arnold area, Senior Helpers St. Louis is here to help maintain your loved one's quality of life, especially during the Missouri winter months. Seniors Helpers St. Louis can be a great resource by not only making sure your loved one is taken care of, but many times the strong bond with their Senior Helper caregiver and this becomes a friendship that they will look forward to every time their caregiver is scheduled to visit. We are here to help, so if you have any questions or would like more information about our services, please contact us today!