If you live in Fishers, IN, you know that the weather can get pretty intense. Temperatures can drop to as low as 22°F in the winter months. Hence, it is no surprise that many with aging loved ones are concerned that seasonal depression would plague their older relatives during the colder seasons. It is undoubtedly a harrowing ordeal to go through. Still, for those whose loved ones are living in elderly homes in Fishers, IN, you can rest easy knowing that these retirement communities have programs in place to mitigate or manage seasonal depression. Here are four ways they achieve this.
What is Seasonal Depression?
Seasonal depression, known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a common form of major depression that occurs during the winter as people are forced to spend less time outdoors due to the frigid weather conditions, reduce their mobility due to the colder temperatures, and perhaps even result in pain and illness. There are numerous symptoms to look out for, including increased irritability, listlessness, irregular or unusual sleep patterns, and in extreme cases, suicidal thoughts.
Keeping an Eye Out
The thing about seasonal depression is that it is not always easy to catch. To make matters worse, not everyone is aware that seasonal depression is a possibility, and thus may not even be looking out for it. However, retirement communities like Rittenhouse Village are acutely aware of the condition. We ensure that the team is knowledgeable about the symptoms so that we know what to look out for when the winter season rolls around. Due to the harsh winters in Fishers, IN, our team makes sure to keep a close eye on the residents and engage with them frequently. Being proactive allows us to notice the onset of seasonal depression and help us take the necessary steps to assist our residents.
Maximize Sunlight
Have you ever noticed that apartments in retirement communities often have large windows with floorplans that ensure that the space remains spacious and airy? This is because the benefits of natural light cannot be understated. One of the main reasons people get seasonal depression during the winter months is because of the decrease in natural light exposure. Whether it is because they are unable to leave the house to soak up the sunlight while it is still present, or because of the shortened daylight hours, it is indisputable that natural light exposure is directly linked to seasonal depression. While we cannot lengthen the amount of daylight we receive in winter, we can help your loved one receive more sunlight with large windows!
Physical Activity
One of the most exciting parts of living in a retirement community is undoubtedly the monthly event calendars that are teeming with fun activities. These activities can range from arts and crafts to group yoga sessions. While it may seem unassuming at first, these activities are key to preventing seasonal depression.
Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. This will indirectly improve the symptoms of seasonal depression. Furthermore, partaking in the activities in the community’s event calendar will encourage residents to leave their apartments. Not only will they be able to enjoy a breath of fresh air and sunlight, but they can also engage in group activities that will encourage them to interact with others, all of which would help alleviate seasonal depression.
