Senior Depression and Battling the Holidays Blues in Union County, NJ

Seniors and Holiday Blues

The holiday season is quickly coming upon us. For most people it means bright lights and holiday cheer, while for others there are feelings of loneliness and sadness. If you are a caregiver, or visit elderly parents and family during the holidays who live a distance away, you may notice a change in your loved one’s mood as the holiday season can lead to depression.

Some of these changes are:

• Fatigue or sadness

• Not physically active,

• No interest in the holiday or in their surroundings.

Depression in the elderly is difficult to diagnose and is frequently untreated. Symptoms may be confused with a medical illness, dementia, or malnutrition due to a poor diet. Additionally, caregivers who look after a loved one are also vulnerable to holiday blues, due to an excess of stress.

What causes depression in seniors?

Holidays tend to bring memories of earlier times, times of joy and happiness, precious moments. The depression may stem from the current void for seniors who have lost family members, are battling chronic medical conditions, or are suffering from isolation and loneliness. Other factors may include a change in routine, or a move from home to assisted living.

Symptoms to look for in depression might include:

• Depressed or irritable mood

• Feelings of worthlessness or sadness

• Anxiety

• Little or no appetite

• Loss of interest in daily activities

• Weight loss

• Lack of attending to personal care and hygiene

• Fatigue

• Expressions of helplessness

• Difficulty concentrating

• Talk about suicide

Beat Holiday Blues

Depression may also be a sign of a medical condition. Chronic pain or memory loss can also cause depression. In addition, diet can also be a factor when proper nutrition and vitamins are lacking. To help combat holiday depression, Amorycare of Union County is offering these tips for seniors and anyone feeling depressed.

Adjust your expectations Honor traditions of the past be open to creating new ones. Find new ways to celebrate together, such calls, sending videos and emailing. This could lead to restored interest in holiday festivities.

Be a helping hand

Search for opportunities for your senior loved one to volunteer in some capacity to assist people in need, nothing enhances our spirits quite like knowing we’ve helped others

Reach out to someone

Take care of yourself Don’t abandon exercise routines, eating well, a good night’s sleep, and finding time for friends and family. Changes to sleep and eating behaviors, lethargy and consistent sadness, are also signs of depression. If you notice this in your elderly loved one, communicate these changes with their primary doctor.

By making some adjustments and seeking help if you need it, the holidays can still be a time of renewal and joy. Seek friends and family members if you’re feeling isolated and lonely. If they aren’t available, volunteering is an excellent way to meet new people and lift your spirits.

For more ideas to encourage your senior loved one to be active the holidays and all year long, contact AmoryCare of Union County or give us a call at 908-409-1924. Our fully trained caregivers are knowledgeable in assisting older adults live life to the fullest, and we’re here for you with as much or as little help and support as necessary.

Amorycare provides in home care for seniors and aging adults who are dealing with depression in these towns in Union County NJ, Berkeley Heights, Summit, Linden, Scotch Plains, Westfield, Murray Hill, Plainfield, Mountainside, Garwood, Clark, New Providence, Elizabeth, Roselle Park, Winfield, Kenilworth, Vauxhall, Cranford, Springfield, Union and Fanwood NJ.

Amorycare of Union County hopes everyone enjoys their 2018 holidays!