Colder seasons are a great concern for older people with Alzheimer's. Not just because it brings the risk of hypothermia and frostbite, but also because of seasonal affective disorders (SAD). The disorder can affect anyone, but during fall and winter, persons over 65 with Alzheimer's are affected more. Many of them become agitated and distressed, with others showing a decrease in mental ability.
What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?
Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs as seasons change. The condition can occur at any time, but it is more prevalent during colder seasons and begins during late fall or early winter.
Common symptoms of SAD include:
- Decreased concentration
- Loss of interest in activities that interested them before
- Oversleeping
- Constantly feeling sluggish
- Irritability and agitation
- Hopelessness or feeling worthless
- Choosing to be alone most of the time
- Weight gain
- Increased appetite
These symptoms are similar to the other symptoms of depression. The only difference is that they show up more during the colder season.
How SAD Begins to Affect Older People During the Fall and Winter
Much like young people, older people also suffer from some form of depression. One of the most common is seasonal affective disorder (SAD). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 20% of adults aged 55 or older have had some type of mental health issue. With SAD affective disorder, symptoms usually start to show up when there are changes in levels of sunlight exposure.
During colder seasons in Northern Kentucky, Florence, Edgewood, or Union, the lack of sunlight disrupts our bodies' circadian rhythms, resulting in hormonal changes which can affect our moods as well. Given that sunlight is also a source of vitamin D which helps in fighting depression, older people may not get enough of it in colder seasons, causing a shift in moods and sometimes causing or worsening depression.
Another challenge colder weather presents is an increase in levels of loneliness and isolation in older people because they don't get to interact much with others. The reduction in social interaction puts older adults at a greater risk of getting depression, which can further worsen any pre-existing health conditions they may have.
How Does Seasonal Affective Disorder Affect Those with Alzheimer's?
Older people with Alzheimer's or Dementia are greatly affected by SAD. A study conducted on 3,300 older adults in the United States, Canada, and France revealed that cognitive function varies depending on seasons. According to the study, their cognition was higher during warmer seasons, but declined drastically as cold seasons set in. The study also found that older people were more likely to be diagnosed with a cognitive impairment that could turn into dementia.
Diagnosing SAD in people with Alzheimer's can prove difficult, since many symptoms overlap. However, loved ones and caregivers are encouraged to pay attention to any changes in mood when the cold seasons begin. By recognizing these symptoms, caregivers can recommend activities and provide treatments that address both conditions. Caregivers in senior homes can come up with activities or curate programs to help support those with Alzheimer's to fight seasonal affective disorders.
Choose the Right Help For Your Loved One
Like depression, SAD brings multiple distressing symptoms to those affected. Older people with Alzheimer's are more vulnerable. However, with the right care, symptoms can be managed.
At Senior Helpers, our caregivers are knowledgeable in providing quality care and support to older people. We provide customized, dependable, and affordable Alzheimer's and Dementia care that can help combat seasonal depressive disorders. If you or your loved ones are in Northern Kentucky, Florence, Edgewood, or Union, contact us today for help.