Depression During the Holidays
Although the holidays are generally happy times, they can be tough for elderly adults with chronic illnesses or disabilities. They often feel left out because they can’t do the things they used to enjoy. Also, many live alone and don’t have relatives nearby to celebrate with. This isolation can cause them to feel depressed during what’s supposed to be a joyful season. To help ease their difficulty, learn the signs of holiday depression in older adults so you can make sure they’re enjoying themselves as much as possible.
Holiday Memories
The holidays are typically a time for joy and laughter with those we love, yet grief can strike us unexpectedly and make this season really tough. If you’ve recently lost somebody close to you, participating in holiday traditions might now feel impossible. The stress of the holiday season on top of grieving can sometimes lead to depression in older adults. For older adults who are grieving, it’s important to reach out for support. With help, older adults can get through the tough times and enjoy the holidays again.
Isolation
The holiday season is often a trying time for the elderly. With big crowds and complicated plans, it becomes easy to feel left out and overwhelmed. If you see somebody sitting alone during this festive period, take a moment to inquire about how you could help make it easier for them to participate. By showing some extra consideration, you can go a long way in helping everyone enjoy themselves during this special time of year.
This isolation can cause them to feel depressed during what’s supposed to be a joyful season.
Signs of Depression
Depression is often an illness that goes undiagnosed, but it can detrimentally effect every parts of sufferers’ lives. It does not care who you are, and anyone regardless of age, race, or gender can suffer from it. If you relate to any of the symptoms below, please reach out for help because there are many people willing to support you during this difficult time.
Check out these most common signs of depression:
• Persistent sadness or empty mood
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Loss of energy or increased fatigue
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Restlessness or irritability
• Memory problems
• Lack of motivation
What Can You Do?
Many people suffering from depression are able to lead happier lives with treatment and a strong support system. Though it can be challenging, depression often improves when you socialize with close friends or family – even if leaving the house is the last thing you want to do. Taking care of yourself is also crucial. Exercising, eating healthy foods, and getting enough sleep can help ease the symptoms of depression and make you feel better overall.
How Avanti Senior Living at Towne Lake Helps Residents During the Holidays
Many people suffering from depression are able to lead happier lives with treatment and a strong support system. Though it can be challenging, depression often improves when you socialize with close friends or family – even if leaving the house is the last thing you want to do. Taking care of yourself is also crucial. Exercising, eating healthy foods, and getting enough sleep can help ease the symptoms of depression and make you feel better overall.
