How to fight holiday depression and anxiety in seniors? It may be easier said than done. Depression and anxiety during the festive period seem to go hand-in-hand, particularly concerning the November- December holidays. Here are several strategies to fight holiday depression and anxiety in seniors.
Don’t let the blues dampen your enjoyment during a time of the year when many celebrate and give thanks! If your senior loved one is feeling down, there are practical steps you can take to keep their spirits up:
Be Aware of Changes in Mood
If you’re picking up on signs that your senior loved one or aging parent is starting to display signs of being overly stressed or exhibiting an unusual display of energy levels at strange times, they may be experiencing seasonal depression it anxiety. Are they feeling a little sad or lonely? Acknowledge their feelings and give them the space to air these out. Remind them that it is OK and perfectly normal to feel a bit down during the holiday season. Becoming aware of their feelings is the first step to finding relief. Journaling or encouraging them to write a letter can undoubtedly help.
Reach Out to Family, Friends, or Even Neighbors
Talking to someone—such as a friend or family member—can be a powerful remedy. Connecting with others is one of the most effective ways to avoid the blues during the holiday season and to lift your mood with a conversation or a laugh. Reach out to those around you and seek commonalities that can form a basis for shared activities. An example is senior-friendly activities at a local community center or even a seminar at a local church. Perhaps even consider a local book club that not only stimulates the mind as it encourages reading but also stimulates social interaction and debate – a great way to keep feelings of depression and anxiety at bay.
Spend Time with Animals
Connecting with other people isn’t the only way to enjoy social interaction. Spending time with dogs, cats, and other animals can provide the emotional lift many seniors may need at this time of year. Visiting with dogs has been found to reduce anxiety, stress, and depression and to create an overall sense of well-being.
Try to Stay Physically Active
Despite the tendency to feel tired and uninspired when we’re feeling blue, one of the most effective ways to combat sadness is to take on some form of exercise or physical activity. Exercise has been proven to improve symptoms of depression in older adults and boost memory and cognitive performance. Encourage your senior to join a group class, stroll around the neighborhood, or try something they can do at home, such as chair yoga. Any type of physical activity they enjoy will be a fantastic way to get their endorphins flowing and improve their mood.
Make Time for Hobbies They’re Passionate About
Whether reading, painting, listening to music, writing, baking, or something else that inspires your aging loved one, connecting with hobbies can help take their minds off difficult thoughts or feelings. Be sure to continue any regular activities they usually participate in, even if motivation is low. Holding on to their interests and pastimes helps maintain a sense of identity and fulfillment as we age and is also crucial for people experiencing memory loss.
Give Back Where Possible
Volunteering in your local community is an excellent way to connect with others and feel good about making a valuable contribution. There are many causes and organizations seeking volunteers over the holiday period and beyond. Glory Days has a fantastic senior day program that gives caregivers a much-needed break and offers many flexible volunteering options.
Actively Ask for Help
Don’t forget that if you find yourself persistently sad, lethargic, or anxious, or if you are experiencing other symptoms of depression, seek professional help immediately. Remember that older adults may sometimes experience difficulty opening up about their true feelings as they may fear burdening their families. Assure your senior that this is not the case and encourage them to ask for help before it’s too late. If you find that your senior is not so willing to open up, you can always read our informative blog on how to spot the subtle signs of depression in seniors.