Engaging in regular physical activity and practicing self-care and relaxation are some of the ways seniors in Hanford, California, can help reverse seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as "seasonal depression." Focusing on a healthy diet and staying connected can help combat this condition, too.
Following those mood-boosting habits and tips is especially crucial for older adults, as they already have a high likelihood of experiencing loneliness, a known factor for depression. As an article published in JAMA Network explains, a national poll conducted in 2023 found that 37% of older Americans (50 to 80 years old) experienced loneliness.
In today's post, the caring team at The Remington, our independent living community in Hanford, the beautiful city just under 30 miles from Fresno, and serves as the county seat of Kings County, will share insights into SAD and tips for achieving winter wellness for seniors.
Scientists are still trying to establish the root causes of seasonal affective disorder. However, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) says that studies show people with SAD, particularly winter-pattern SAD, have lower serotonin levels. Shorter daylight hours and decreased sunlight exposure may also contribute to the problem.
SAD isn't curable, but its symptoms are typically temporary. They "go away" as the seasons change, and are treatable and manageable with professional help and self-care.
Seniors in Hanford, CA, don't have to wait for the seasons to change to overcome the symptoms of SAD. There are many things they can do to minimize the signs and indications of this condition, including the following.
Staying active indoors or outdoors through regular physical activity(e.g., daily exercise) is one of the top ways to help cope with depression. As WebMD points out, it helps release hormones called endorphins. Endorphins are natural chemicals that help:
Exercise can also help enhance self-esteem and sleep. It can even serve as a gateway for the benefits of natural light therapy in aging adults with SAD.
Exposure to more sunlight, such as by engaging in outdoor physical activity, can help improve mood by reducing cortisol (stress hormones). It can also raise the levels of happy hormones like serotonin and dopamine. All these perks make exercise a healthy, must-have habit, especially for seniors battling anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
Self-care and relaxation can help seniors reverse or minimize the symptoms of SAD by reducing anxiety, stress, and negative thoughts. Such activities can help improve mood and even allow for better sleep.
Some examples and ideas of healthy activities for older adults in Hanford, CA are:
Any other activity, as long as they're healthy and make you or your older loved one happy and content, can be a form of self-care and relaxation.
A healthy diet can also help ease or reverse seasonal affective disorder symptoms by boosting mood. Some examples of foods that can help with SAD are:
Limiting sugar can also help, as its excessive intake may result in functional changes in the brain, including those that affect moods.
Staying connected with loved ones and friends is another effective tool for combating SAD. It can help:
Yes. Seasonal affective disorder doesn't just exhibit its symptoms during winter; it can also affect people, including older adults, during summer.
Summer-pattern SAD, also called "summer depression" or "reverse SAD," is SAD that affects individuals during the summer season.
People with SAD experience a persistent feeling of hopelessness and loneliness. They may also lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. Some may withdraw from social circles, exhibit changes in appetite, and experience changes in sleep patterns and energy levels.
Older adults who experience SAD may also experience cognitive problems, including difficulty in making decisions or concentrating. They may even encounter physical aches and pains without an apparent cause.
The symptoms of seasonal affective disorder may last for several months. Individuals with winter-pattern SAD may experience the signs of this condition from fall through winter. People with summer-pattern SAD, on the other hand, may notice the symptoms during the spring and summer months.
Yes, SAD can worsen if left untreated and unmanaged. Anyone who experiences this type of depression, including seniors in Hanford, CA, should therefore prioritize their mental health and well-being. Otherwise, their symptoms may increase in severity and frequency, occurring daily and throughout the year.
At The Remington, our Hanford, CA, retirement living community, we ensure residents always have access to social, physical, and recreational activities. We have a daily calendar of fun and engaging classes and events to help seniors keep the winter (and summer) blues away.
We're also proud to have a team of talented culinary staff. Our team uses only the freshest ingredients daily to whip up nutritious, delicious meals for our residents.
From exercising regularly to practicing self-care and taking the time to relax, these are all helpful ways for seniors to ease or reverse seasonal affective disorder. Eating healthily and staying social are also crucial strategies for combating SAD.
Our warm, loving, and pet-friendly independent living community in Hanford, CA, is always ready and happy to help our older residents keep the blues away. From our spacious apartment homes to our robust activity and event calendar and delicious, nutritious meals, we offer all these and more at The Remington.
Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you or your older loved one live life to the fullest!