Depression is a critical issue for caregivers of the elderly and especially those caring for clients with Alzheimer's disease. The elderly are at an increased risk of experiencing depression. Thus, their caregivers should know its signs and symptoms and how to deal with them. It'll allow them to take action early before it exacerbates any chronic condition, such as Alzheimer's. This post covers what you need to know about seasonal depression, including what it is and whether it worsens or complicates Alzheimer's Disease.
What Is Seasonal Depression?
Seasonal depression, otherwise known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that occurs around the same time every year, usually in late fall or early winter in Aurora-Geneva.
When daylight savings end in November, the days get shorter and the nights longer. Less sun exposure affects our circadian rhythm "natural biological" clock and causes changes in brain chemistry, such as the production of too much melatonin. This leads to depression that lasts until spring and summer when the days get longer.
It can take a toll on all aspects of a senior's life, from social life to appetite, sleep, and energy levels.
Signs and Symptoms
Seasonal depression is a type of depression, so the indicators are generally the same. The caregiver should be on the lookout for the following symptoms.
- Irritability and agitation
- Trouble sleeping and general fatigue
- Expression of helplessness
- Using drugs and alcohol for comfort
- Trouble concentrating
- Loss of interest in activities they usually enjoy
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Frequent thoughts of suicide
It can be a bit hard to recognize signs of depression in someone with Alzheimer's, but a simple way to confirm is to check if the symptoms started around late fall or early winter.
Can Seasonal Depression Worsen or Complicate Alzheimer's?
Many seniors living with Alzheimer's in Aurora-Geneva have several ongoing changes in their brains' chemistries, which put them at a higher risk of developing seasonal depression. But does seasonal depression exacerbate the symptoms of Alzheimer's, speed the progression of the disease, or complicate care?
Yes, it can, according to studies. A history of depression may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's later in life and exacerbate the symptoms of Alzheimer's. So, the moment you notice signs of depression in your elderly loved one, then confirm they have seasonal depression, help them manage it, and prevent it the following year in the following ways.
How to Prevent and Manage Seasonal Depression
The four tips below can help you prevent and manage seasonal depression in your senior client.
- Know the risk factors: Some risk factors include living too far from the equator and lower levels of vitamin D. Being aware of the risk factors can help you prevent it.
- Increase light exposure: Opening windows, getting outside in the sun, and spending time in the brightest room in the house can help prevent and manage seasonal depression.
- Regular physical activity: Have your senior client engage in physical activities. They can reduce the risk of seasonal depression as the senior enjoys the other advantages of exercise.
- Seek assistance: If you are at a loss on what to do, don't hesitate to call a doctor. They will accurately diagnose the cause of the signs and symptoms.
The tips above can help you treat your senior client's depression as soon as possible, preventing any serious complications to their Alzheimer's. They can also prevent it altogether.
Consider In-House Senior Care to Help Your Loved One Age in Place
Seasonal depression occurs around the end of fall and the beginning of winter. So, it might be easy to identify and diagnose. However, because late-life depression increases the risk of suffering from Alzheimer's and Alzheimer's increases the risk of suffering from depression, you need to take action as soon as possible to minimize the effects of seasonal depression on Alzheimer's.
Senior Helpers Aurora-Geneva is a premier provider of in-home senior care in Aurora-Geneva. If you or a senior loved one want to age in place, we offer a comprehensive suite of services to support you. We help seniors looking for companionship as well as those with chronic illnesses, such as dementia and Alzheimer's.
Contact us today to discuss with us how we can help your loved one begin a new journey!