As days become shorter, nights longer, and temperatures colder, winter can be a particularly difficult time for the elderly. If not managed properly, some elderly folk can be prone to feeling isolated, lonely and depressed. If you or an elderly loved one happen to find yourself struggling a bit this winter, we’ve got a few tips on how to beat those “winter blues”:
Stay active
Engaging in some form of physical activity is a good mood enhancer to get those endorphins going. Studies show that maintaining physical exercise helps prevent a number of diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Exercise also strengthens the immune system, and even moderate movements such as stretching, and walking is beneficial.
Take up a hobby
To maintain a healthy state of mind and to stimulate the brain in a positive manner, taking up a new hobby is very important. It’s a great way to focus on something and to achieve a goal, while doing something you enjoy. Hobbies also provide stress relief, a distraction from personal worries and other stress. To be productive and accomplish an activity or task, either in a group so as to additionally benefit from social interaction or on one’s own, provides a pleasurable and stimulating experience.
Eat a balanced diet
Eating a balanced diet is essential for the elderly as it’s a natural way to boost your mood and energy. Be sure to eat a combination of proteins, carbohydrates, dairy products, and fruits and vegetables.
Obtaining enough vitamins and minerals is also essential as we get older, as we tend to lose our appetite with age.
Socialise with others
Being around others will help lift your mood. Plan activities that will get you outside and into the fresh air. Social interaction leads to a higher quality of life for many reasons. A healthy mental state of mind can be benefitted by good conversation and sharing stories, memories, and experiences with others.
Take Vitamin D
While sunlight is the best source of vitamin D, if you’re not able to get out as much, perhaps speak to your doctor about taking a vitamin D supplement. Many studies have suggested a link between a Vitamin D deficiency and low mood. Elderly people can benefit from a supplement to prevent depression as well as to boost mental health.
Take time for yourself
Time alone also has its benefits. Curl up on your favourite chair with a blanket, a good book and your pet, if you have one. Listen to some music or an audio book, which will lift your mood and stimulate your brain.
Maintain your daily routine
Having a daily routine provides one with a sense of accomplishment and independence, and you can feel a sense of achievement through completing small tasks. Mental wellbeing can be maintained by a daily routine of various self-care tasks such as eating, taking one’s medication, watering plants, and pet care.
We hope these tips help you and we encourage you to speak to your doctor should you be feeling down or depressed. While some days may be harder than others, try to remind yourself that every day is a blessing. Should you or your loved one require a carer for company or additional care assistance, Dewcare Non-Medical Care Services is only a phone call away – 028 316 1547.
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