Many seniors might have changes in mood during the holidays. It's a good idea to keep an eye out for the symptoms of senior depression and seek professional help, if necessary. Many lifestyle changes can also help a senior feel less depressed, especially during the holidays.
Why Do Seniors Feel Depressed During the Holidays?
There are several reasons why seniors might feel depressed during the holiday season.
- Health: Many seniors are becoming less mobile and face other health issues as time goes by. So they might feel depressed about not being able to do the same things they could do the year before.
- Loss of Loved Ones: Many seniors have lost loved ones as they've grown older. They may have lost a spouse, a sibling, friends, etc. This means that they have fewer people to celebrate the holidays with, which might give rise to feelings of depression.
- SAD: Yet another reason why seniors feel depressed during the holidays is that they might be suffering from SAD—seasonal affective disorder. SAD often occurs in the autumn and winter months and is more intense than just having the winter blues. Less daylight, fewer opportunities to socialize, and less exercise can all exacerbate SAD.
What Are the Symptoms of Senior Depression?
Watch out for the following symptoms of senior depression during the holidays:
- The senior has many ups and downs in mood.
- The senior might be getting irritated faster.
- They might seem sadder or more mournful.
- They might feel guilty or blame themselves for things.
- They may feel helpless as if they have no control over anything.
- They may feel anxious about little things in their day-to-day life.
- They may not feel like doing the things they usually enjoy.
- They might eat less or more than usual.
- They might sleep less or more than usual.
- They might complain that they feel tired all the time.
- They may not be able to concentrate on any activities.
- In extreme cases, they might express suicidal thoughts.
The senior might not have all these symptoms of depression. But if they have three or four of these symptoms, they might be suffering from holiday depression.
How to Treat Senior Depression During the Holidays
There are many ways to treat senior depression during the holidays. It all depends on the degree to which the senior seems depressed. If they seem to be sad more than half the time, then it might be best to consult a professional who might prescribe an antidepressant and regular therapy. Several other lifestyle changes can help a senior feel less depressed during the holidays.
- Socializing: Visiting seniors more often and helping them set up more outings with friends can help a great deal with feelings of loneliness and isolation.
- Exercise: Encouraging seniors to take walks or do gentle yoga/tai chi can help them feel better.
- Light Therapy: Light therapy can also be beneficial, in case the senior is suffering from SAD. Having the senior sit in front of a light box or making sure they get more natural light can help alleviate symptoms of depression.
- Diet: Eating healthier food—fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein—can give seniors more energy, both physical and mental.
- Activities: Taking up a hobby can also help seniors pass their time constructively. They might also end up meeting new people when they take up a hobby, which can help them feel less isolated.
How Can a Caretaker Help With Senior Depression During the Holidays?
If the senior lives in St. Louis, Ballwin, Fenton, or Arnold, a caretaker from Senior Helpers St. Louis can make sure that they get their daily exercise, eat well, or practice a hobby they enjoy. They can also provide company which will prevent the senior from feeling isolated; they can help set up meetings with friends which will alleviate feelings of depression. Contact us to learn more about dealing with senior depression during the holidays.