Overcoming Seasonal Affective Disorder in Older Adults

With the end of daylight saving time and winter settling in, many people have an unwelcome visitor: seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD. The National Institute on Aging states that up to 20% of older adults experience some form of seasonal depression or winter-related mood changes, which makes the condition a great concern for older adults and their caregivers during the darker months of the year. Here is more about this condition and ways you can make sure this visitor doesn’t stay for an extended length of time.

Understanding SAD in Older Adults: More Than Just Winter Blues

Seasonal affective disorder in seniors can look much different than in younger adults. While younger people may experience oversleeping or increased appetite, older adults usually experience more subtle changes, such as increased confusion in the evening (sometimes called “sundowning”), a loss of interest in social activities, or difficulty with daily tasks that used to be manageable. In many cases, these changes are noticeable to caregivers before they are apparent to seniors themselves.

During the winter months, when darkness starts to set in earlier, family caregivers should look out for common signs of SAD in their older loved ones, such as:

• Changed sleeping patterns or an increase in daytime naps.
• Decreased interest in usual daily activities and hobbies.
• Increased anxiety about leaving the house.
• Loss of appetite or unexplained weight loss.
• More focus on physical complaints or aches.

Why Winter Poses Special Challenges for Seniors

The impact of winter on older adults is not just about less sunlight. Decreased mobility, fear of falling on ice, and difficulty driving in the dark or inclement weather can lead to increased isolation. In addition, many older adults are already on a variety of medications that may have mood- or energy-altering potential, predisposing them to the effects of SAD. Understanding these unique challenges is crucial to developing effective coping strategies.

Safe and Senior-Friendly Ways To Stay Active and Connected

1. Provide indoor light thoughtfully. A bright environment is good for older adults, but precautions must be followed. Because older eyes can be more sensitive to bright light, talking with a health care provider about the best way to use light therapy is essential.

Smart lighting tips include:

• Positioning chairs near windows but not in cold drafts.
• Installing motion-sensor night lights to prevent falls.
• Using timer-controlled lamps that brighten gradually in the morning.
• Keeping window coverings open during daylight hours.

2. Pay attention to exercise limitations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention emphasizes the importance of seniors staying active during the winter months but urges doing so safely. Chair exercises, light stretching, and walking inside can help keep bodies mobile and decrease the chances of SAD setting in. Avoiding outside physical activity during the winter months can help seniors avert becoming a statistic—one in four Americans age 65 and older experiences a fall each year.

Safe indoor activities for seniors include:

• Following senior-specific exercise videos.
• Walking in shopping centers with friends.
• Taking classes in chair yoga or tai chi.
• Avoiding heavy housekeeping duties and asking for assistance if needed.

3. Maintain social connections safely. Research from the American Psychological Association demonstrates that social isolation can significantly increase the symptoms of depression among older adults, and the winter months can be especially challenging. Its research emphasizes that keeping up with regular social contact can lower the risk of depression by as much as 50% in older adults. Technology can bridge this divide, but it has to be user-friendly and accessible.

Caregivers can help by:

• Setting up easy-to-use video chat systems.
• Organizing regular phone check-ins with family and friends.
• Arranging transportation to senior center activities.
• Creating opportunities for intergenerational activities with grandchildren.

4. Create a senior-friendly indoor environment. The home should provide both safety and an elevation of mood during winter. Caregivers should consider making adjustments that address older adults’ physical and emotional safety. Important environmental considerations include:

• Removing trip hazards and ensuring good lighting in all areas.
• Maintaining a comfortable temperature (seniors often need warmer environments).
• Keeping frequently used items within easy reach.
• Adding cheerful elements like bird feeders outside windows.

Special Considerations for Caregivers

The National Alliance for Caregiving says that caregivers of seniors are crucial to the management of SAD symptoms in older adults. However, research shows that family caregivers are at an increased risk of depression and seasonal mood swings as well. NAC research shows that up to 40% of family caregivers experience depression, so creating a care plan that supports both the senior’s and the caregiver’s well-being is essential.

Tips for family caregivers:

• Schedule respite care to prevent burnout.
• Join caregiver support groups for winter-specific challenges.
• Learn to recognize signs of depression in both you and your loved one.
• Develop emergency plans for winter weather situations.

Communicating With Health Care Providers

The American Geriatrics Society states that regular communication with health care providers is increasingly important during winter months. According to AGS research, many older adults take an average of four to five prescription medications daily, which may interact with SAD treatments. The AGS recommends monthly medication reviews during seasonal transitions to ensure safe and effective treatment plans.

Seniors and family caregivers are encouraged to consider the following:

• Review all medications with the senior’s doctor, including supplements.
• Discuss vitamin D supplements with the doctor (especially important for seniors).
• Check telehealth options for days when travel is difficult.
• Keep a mood journal to track symptoms and treatment effectiveness.

Creating Meaningful Winter Activities

Meaningful winter activities may be just what the doctor ordered when it comes to beating SAD and can be the key to making it through the dark winter months. When helping older adults choose activities, caregivers should be sure they are engaging yet manageable and safe.

Some ideas for indoor activities include:

• Organizing family photos and sharing stories.
• Working on large-print puzzles or crafts.
• Participating in gentle indoor gardening.
• Using favorite family recipes to cook and bake together.

Managing Winter Blues: A Balanced Approach to Senior Wellness and Safety

A supportive environment is created when there is an acknowledgment of both the physical and emotional challenges that winter presents, which can help seniors thrive despite the difficulties of the season. For both seniors and their caregivers, the management of SAD is a matter of balance between activity and safety. This will enable families to put in place more cooperation and open communication with health care providers regarding the strategies that can be used to cope with the challenges of winter.

How Right at Home Can Help

Right at Home offers a wide range of in-home care services. Our caregivers can provide light housekeeping, medication reminders, transportation to appointments and social activities, and help with ambulation and hygiene. Use our office locator to find your local Right at Home and request a FREE in-home care consultation today.

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