For elderly people suffering from Alzheimer's, as well as their relatives and caregivers, the winter season presents several additional health issues. Fall risks, hypothermia, pneumonia, and the flu are just a few of them. However, there is another issue that many people tend to ignore: SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). This post discusses SAD, its manifestations, and how it can potentially worsen the symptoms of those suffering from Alzheimer's disease.
What Is Seasonal Depression (SAD)?
Seasonal Affective Disorder starts and ends at the same periods each year and is linked to seasonal variations. Its symptoms typically begin in the fall and last through the winter, draining your elderly loved one's vitality. Typically, these symptoms go away in the summer and spring months. (SAD less frequently results in a depression in the spring or early summer and clears up in the fall or winter.)
SAD Symptoms
The following are likely signs and symptoms of SAD:
- Feeling sad, or down all day;
- Losing enthusiasm for things they used to enjoy;
- Being short of energy;
- Excessive sleep;
- Poor concentration;
- Hopelessness or guilt
Winter-Specific SAD Signs and Symptoms
- Oversleeping
- Changes in appetite
- A desire for meals high in carbs
- Weight gain
- Fatigue or low energy
Seasonal Depression and Alzheimer's
The colder months can exacerbate Alzheimer's disease symptoms and impair basic cognitive function among seniors.
Individuals suffering from dementia and Alzheimer's disease may have seasonal variations in their cognitive abilities. Actually, the late summer and early fall are preferable times for senior family members to wander than the winter and spring. And obviously, the weather shifts are not only common in the fall and winter, but they also mark the start of the holidays. Schedules become tighter during this time, and stress levels increase.
Your senior loved one feels this transition the most. This period of the year could be especially challenging if your elderly loved one has dementia or Alzheimer's since these conditions might worsen. Winter weather and shorter daylight hours, along with holiday parties and visits, may contribute to increased agitation and disorientation.
Besides, winter and the commencement of daylight savings time can be quite difficult for those with Alzheimer's. They are likely to experience sundowning, which is marked by heightened confusion and restlessness during the afternoon if they suffer from early-to-mid stage Alzheimer's. The shorter days also make it more difficult for them to adapt to the change, as the diminished sunshine might alter their bodies' circadian rhythms.
Studies also show that people suffering from Alzheimer's become more confused when their routines change. Besides how the time change affects routines and everyday schedules, family visits and holiday festivities may seriously disrupt a senior's regular patterns, which contribute to SAD manifestations that can worsen Alzheimer's.
Live to the Fullest With Senior Helpers Mesa
Understanding the symptoms of SAD and making significant adjustments to your elderly dear one's everyday routine will enable you both to stay cheerful throughout the long winter. At Senior Helpers Mesa, we offer in-home care services to seniors, particularly those suffering from Alzheimer's, Dementia, and Parkinson's. Our expert Alzheimer's care is available within the Mesa, Fountain Hills, Scottsdale, Apache Junction, and Cave Creek neighborhoods. Contact our helpful staff right now to find out more about all the advantages of leaving your elderly loved one in our care.