Winter blues refer to the general feelings of sadness or low energy that some people experience during the colder, darker months. These feelings are usually temporary and don't significantly disrupt daily life. Seniors in Camby, IN, can beat the winter blues by staying physically active and maximizing their exposure to light. They should also engage in hobbies and stay connected with family and friends.
Last year, 41% of Americans reported experiencing a decline in mood during winter, according to a poll by the American Psychiatric Association. Changes in behavior that included sleeping more, fatigue, and depression were also noted.
These general feelings of sadness and low energy, which typically occur during the colder, darker months, are often referred to as winter blues. They are usually temporary, causing minimal disruption to daily activities. However, winter blues can have a more significant impact on seniors, increasing isolation, exacerbating chronic health issues, and disrupting sleep and appetite, especially during Indiana's winters.
Seniors in Camby can proactively address their physical and emotional well-being this winter by prioritizing safety, activity, and connection. Although temperatures may be too low to explore the Cottonwood Lakes Mann Hill Trail, older adults can enjoy several indoor activities, including indoor exercises, hobby-based pursuits, or community events.
Continue reading to discover how to beat the winter blues while staying active indoors.
Learning how to beat the winter blues starts with recognizing its signs and symptoms. Common manifestations include:
If these symptoms persist or worsen, it may indicate seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a specific type of depression that is persistent and debilitating, causing major disruptions to daily life. Winter blues are a more common temporary feeling that typically lasts for a short period.
Seek professional help if symptoms persist beyond two weeks and disrupt your daily life.
Beating the winter blues requires a holistic approach to safeguard your overall wellness. An effective strategy should result in improved mood, increased energy levels, and great motivation. Here's how you can achieve this:
Exposure to light during the winter can help regulate the body's circadian rhythm, which can impact mood, sleep, and energy levels. It also facilitates the production of vitamin D, which supports the immune system and body health. To get your daily dosage and brighten your environment:
Light therapy tips, such as using lamps or devices in the morning, help make treatment more effective.
Regular movement releases endorphins, which enhance mood and reduce stress and anxiety. It also improves physical health by lowering the risk of chronic diseases. During winter, consider the following to stay physically active:
Social connections and community engagement can combat winter isolation. They offer opportunities for seniors to form new friendships and receive winter mood support by:
On days you prefer to stay indoors, consider making calls or arranging virtual meetups.
Pursuing your hobbies can provide opportunities for social interaction during winter. It also fosters mental stimulation, enhancing cognitive function. Even when outdoor activities are limited, consider these options:
Immersing yourself in hobbies or favorite pastimes allows you not only to be creative but also to have fun, especially when doing it with others.
Maintaining healthy habits can help counteract seasonal challenges, while a consistent routine can provide structure, purpose, and a sense of stability. You can achieve both by performing the following actions:
Sticking to a routine also allows you to plan, encouraging adherence to winter safety precautions, such as dressing properly for warmth, wearing non-slip footwear for outdoor excursions, and taking extra safety measures when temperatures are low.
Winter blues can last from a few weeks to several months. The duration depends on the severity of the symptoms. Factors that influence the length of winter blues include geographic location, individual resilience, and treatment.
Signs of unhealthy sadness or depression include persistent feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed, and significant changes in sleep and appetite. Lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide are also symptoms. If they last for more than two weeks and interfere with daily life, seek professional help from a doctor or mental health provider.
Being armed with the knowledge of how to beat the winter blues is a proactive step that can safeguard seniors during the colder months. Several local resources can offer support if symptoms do not resolve.
However, communities like Worthington Place Assisted Living make it possible for seniors to stay active, connected, and positive not only during winter but all year round. We offer a variety of activities that focus on residents' overall well-being, including exercise classes to support physical health, card and board games that provide mental stimulation and social interaction, and church services to promote spiritual welfare. A fulfilling life, with enhanced convenience, comfort, and enjoyment, awaits here.