How Seasonal Affective Disorder Can Affect Family Caregivers
The change of seasons is often associated with mood changes, and for some people, these can be drastic. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs in the late fall or winter months when there are fewer hours of daylight. It's important to recognize this condition if it affects your senior loved one or yourself as a family caregiver, so you know how to cope and support each other during this time. Here's how to recognize SAD, and ways to cope with it, from Senior Helpers Santa Monica.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
SAD is a type of depression that follows the same pattern each year following the seasons, according to the Mayo Clinic. It typically starts in late fall or early winter and can continue until springtime when days become longer. Symptoms may include fatigue, irritability, feeling hopeless or depressed, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, low energy levels, and difficulty concentrating.
Recognizing SAD in Your Elderly Relatives
When caring for an elderly relative, it is important to be aware of any changes in behavior or mood that may indicate SAD. Seniors with SAD may seem withdrawn and uninterested in activities they normally enjoy. They may also show signs of fatigue, difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight loss or gain. Recognizing these signs will allow you to offer the right kind of support.
Mental Effects
The mental effects of SAD can be significant. These signs could include a lack of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, and changes in sleep patterns. If your elderly relative is showing these symptoms, offer emotional support and look for ways to help them cope with the feelings they are experiencing.
Physical Effects
SAD can also have physical effects. These may include fatigue, low energy levels, difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping, changes in appetite, and weight gain or loss. Help your elderly relative stay healthy during this time by preparing well-rounded meals together, consulting your senior's medical care team, and talking about the symptoms they are experiencing.
Ways You Can Help
As a family caregiver, there are several ways you can help your elderly relative cope with SAD. You can provide emotional support by spending time with them and engaging in activities that they enjoy. It is also important to ensure that they are getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals, and staying physically active. Lastly, it's important to make sure they have access to professional help if needed.
Recognizing SAD in Yourself
It is also important to recognize signs of SAD in yourself as a family caregiver. Caregiving can be an emotionally and physically demanding job, so it's important to take time for yourself and recognize if you are feeling overwhelmed or exhausted. Taking breaks, engaging in self-care activities, talking to someone about your feelings, and seeking professional help if needed are all ways that you can manage stress and stay healthy during this time.
Strategies to Mitigate Seasonal Affective Disorder
There are several things that you can do to help yourself and your elderly relative cope with SAD. Getting outside in the daylight, engaging in regular physical activity, and taking breaks when needed are all ways to help manage stress and stay healthy during this time.
Senior Helpers Offers Premium Caregiving Services
If you or your elderly relative are struggling with SAD, seeking professional help might be a good idea. Senior Helpers Santa Monica can provide the support and care you need, with services such as companionship, transportation, light housekeeping, and more. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you or your senior loved one in the Santa Monica, Los Angeles, Pacific Palisades, and Marina del Rey areas cope with SAD.