Combatting Seasonal Depression Among Older Adults

During the cold winter months, physical hazards like slips and falls may be top of mind for many older adults and their loved ones. But it’s also crucial to remember the toll that shorter days and frigid temperatures can take on older adults’ mental health and overall well-being.??

Older adults tend to be more prone to the effects of the dreary winter months. As a result, they are particularly vulnerable to developing seasonal depression or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This is a type of depression related to the change in seasons that is most common during the winter months.??

Thankfully, there are several ways older adults and their loved ones can prevent, reduce the symptoms of or cope with this disorder.??

Keep an Eye Out for Symptoms???

The symptoms of SAD in older adults are similar to those of depression. They include feelings of hopelessness and sadness that won’t go away, loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, difficulty concentrating and more. Older adults with SAD may also experience physical symptoms such as fatigue, changes in weight and increased irritability.?

Noticing whether the older adults in your life seem a little more down than usual and recognizing symptoms of SAD and other mental health issues are key to taking the proper steps to address these.??

Preventing and Managing SAD??

Luckily, there are several steps that older adults can take to prevent or manage SAD.??

• Improve sleep routines. As we age, our bodies produce less melatonin, the hormone that helps regulate sleep. This can make it more difficult to get a good night’s sleep, a key component of overall mental health. You can combat this and lessen feelings of depression by sticking to a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.??
• Exercise regularly and eat a healthy, balanced diet. Eating healthy and staying active isn’t just good for your physical health, it can also help boost your mood and improve your total health. Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, can help to support good mental health.??
• Try light therapy. Light therapy, which mimics natural outdoor light, involves exposing oneself to bright light for a certain amount of time each day and is linked to a better mood. While research on light therapy is limited, it has been shown to be effective for most people in relieving SAD symptoms. Talk to your doctor first to see if light therapy is right for you.?
• Be social. Connect with others and seek support from friends, loved ones, neighbors and community members. This can provide a sense of community and help to alleviate feelings of isolation and loneliness, which contribute to our overall mental well-being.?

Remember Support Is Available??

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of SAD that are severe or persistent, it may be helpful to seek the advice of a mental health professional. Talking to a professional, like a therapist or counselor, can help individuals manage symptoms of SAD and other mental health issues. Remember there are many resources available to those looking for support.??

Some Medicare Advantage plans, like those offered by Aetna, provide resources that can help with SAD and other mental health issues. Call the Member Services number on the back of your health plan ID card to learn more about the mental health benefits that are included with your Medicare plan. Telehealth options may be available to help you connect with a licensed doctor or therapist by phone or video chat. That can be a great solution for those who prefer care in the comfort and privacy of their home.?

Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Seeking help and support for SAD is a brave and important step towards living a happier, healthier life.??