Seasonal Depression is a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons. The loved ones living with Alzheimer's in Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Oxnard, and Newbury Park tend to become moody at the start of the fall, all the way into winter as a result of seasonal depression. Common symptoms of seasonal depression during fall and winter are weight gain, tiredness, appetite changes, and oversleeping.
Seasonal Depression affects seniors with Alzheimer's during winter in Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks. They experience shorter days and longer nights, reduced movement and socialization, and changes in their routine. The following are five effects of seasonal depression on seniors with Alzheimer's;
Sleep Disturbances Due to Depression
Routine is essential for loved ones living with Alzheimer's. The caregivers ensure to stick to their timetable for certain activities such as eating, bathing, and sleeping. There are shorter days and long nights during winter in Newbury Park and the areas around Oxnard. This change of weather causes confusion among the loved ones living with Alzheimer's in terms of when they are and are not supposed to be sleeping.
Sundowning
Senior adults with Alzheimer's dementia feel disoriented during winter because the days become shorter and there is no sunlight. As a result, the loved ones living in Newbury Park experience various symptoms, such as aggression, irritation, and anger. These symptoms can be observed by a caregiver when the sun sets. The sun sets earlier during winter. The symptoms also arise earlier and last longer. This is what is defined as sundowning.
Reduced Physical Activity
Regular physical exercise is vital for seniors living with Alzheimer's in Newbury Park. It prevents the progression of the brain disorder. It also increases the endurance of tissues, organs, and cells to any oxidative stress. During winter, there is a minimal movement for seniors with Alzheimer's, leading to reduced physical activity, which worsens their condition.
Poor Nutrition
Senior adults in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village tend to crave unhealthy food, such as sugary foods, which cannot give them long-term energy. Low energy levels lead to the progression of Alzheimer's disease. It becomes challenging for the caregiver to convince their loved one to stick to a healthy diet when they crave sugary foods during the winter.
Low Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential part of Alzheimer's treatment. During winter in areas around Thousand Oaks and Oxnard, the loved ones living with Alzheimer's don't get exposed to sunlight. It means that they only acquire low vitamin D supplements in their bodies. Low vitamin D increases the progression of Alzheimer's.
Perception Problems
Senior adults with Alzheimer's tend to have perception problems. If taken out, it is difficult for them to see slippery sidewalks in Oxnard, which tends to become wet and cool during winter. The seniors living with Alzheimer's assume that the surface is safe for them to walk on. On the other hand, some loved ones tend to see the sidewalks and surfaces being very slippery and are afraid of walking around. The loved ones with Alzheimer's do not remember to dress appropriately for the cool weather in Oxnard and might acquire pneumonia. Perception problems increase during the winter season, and a caregiver living around Thousand Oaks should be very careful when handling their loved ones with Alzheimer's during this season.
Conclusion
Seniors receiving Alzheimer's care around Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Newbury Park, and Oxnard deserve professional experienced caregivers to care for them. At Senior Helpers, we are the premier providers of quality senior care services with specialized care for loved ones living with Alzheimer's. Call us today and allow us to serve your loved one.