Guarding Against Winter Isolation
When the temperatures drop in this part of the country, it is not uncommon for seniors to rearrange their lives to avoid leaving home. Bad weather can impact decisions to travel, connecting with friends, attending events, or even running errands. Many seniors find that the winter season can lead to isolation, loneliness, and even depression.
The Winter season is also connected to Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and vitamin D deficiency, both of which are known to have effects on older adults’ physical and mental health.
So what can be done? Betsy Canino at Today’s Caregiver has a series of useful suggestions. Here are some highlights and notes:
- At particular risk are those seniors who may not have an adequate support system. Having regular company – or at least contact – with family members or outside caregivers can be one of the strongest guards against the seasonal isolation or depression.
- “A recent study by Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, Oregon showed that video chatting can help isolated seniors get ahead of the blues.”
- Seniors’ Day Centers provide ongoing support throughout the winter months, including social, memory care, supplies and assistance to medical services.
- Local churches may have volunteers that will visit isolated seniors within their community.