Fighting Depression in Seniors after the Holidays
The holidays are a time for family, joy, and celebration. But for many seniors, the holidays can bring up feelings of sadness or depression. The pandemic has made it even more challenging for seniors to be with their loved ones during this special time of year.
So, if you or the senior in your life is experiencing depression after the holidays, here are a few ways to stay active and optimistic.
Maintain Social Connections
Having meaningful connections with other people is essential in fighting depression. Reaching out to friends and family members can help seniors feel more connected to the world around them. Encourage your senior loved one to stay in touch with those they care about throughout the year.
Remind them that they don't have to wait until the next holiday season rolls around before seeing friends and family again. Nurturing these relationships will help them feel less alone after the holidays are over.
Engage in Meaningful Activities
One way to lift your senior loved one's spirits is by engaging in activities that give them a sense of purpose and accomplishment. This could include crafting, cooking, or simply going for a walk. Anything that makes them feel productive and positive about themselves is beneficial.
Taking part in activities that stimulate their minds combats feelings of loneliness and sadness after the holidays have come and gone. Invite your senior loved one to join you on an outing or encourage them to participate in social activities at their community or local senior center. Local libraries also have activities and events seniors can attend to stay active and engaged.
Take a Trip to a New Place
Planning a trip to a new destination can break up the monotony of everyday life. Even if it's just a weekend getaway, an outing can provide an opportunity to take their minds off any post-holiday gloom. Exploring somewhere new can also help seniors get out of their comfort zone and boost their confidence.
Experiencing awe-striking places positively impacts seniors' overall mental health and helps them gain a new appreciation for life.
Find Professional Support When Needed
It may be difficult for some seniors to open up about how they're feeling after the holidays, but ignoring signs or symptoms of depression may lead to more severe problems.
Seeking professional support from a mental health provider or doctor may manage these feelings. This could include talk therapy, medication management, or both – depending on how severe their symptoms are and what works best for them as an individual.
Many online resources are also available to assist seniors dealing with post-holiday depression. For example, BetterHelp is an online therapy provider that offers counseling services to seniors in the comfort of their own homes.
Final Thoughts
Fighting post-holiday depression isn't easy, but there are ways we can help our senior loved ones fight depression. Be sure to check in with your elderly family members regularly and remind them that you're always there if they need someone to talk to, regardless of the time of year.
Additionally, seeking professional support from a mental health provider is often necessary if more serious symptoms arise. At the end of the day, help is always available for seniors feeling down after the holidays.
At Visiting Angels North Port, FL, the home care providers from our referral network can provide social care to your senior loved ones who are fighting depression after the holidays. If you need someone to check in on your aging relatives and keep them company, give us a call at 941-496-9600 or contact us online today.