8 Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder for Seniors
It's that time of year when everyone's body clock suffers from the change from longer days to longer nights. During periods of the year when the seasons are changing, it's not uncommon for seniors to start feeling depressed or even go through depression episodes. These might be signs of seasonal affective disorder.
Do you notice any significant changes in your mood or sleeping habits when the seasons change? You might have seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is a form of depression that is influenced by the cyclical nature of the seasons. It is a change in one's mood and behavior that starts and ends at around the same time each year.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of SAD?
Seasonal affective disorder symptoms often start to show up in the late fall or early winter and then disappear in the longer, sunnier days of spring and summer. Seniors must keep an eye out for the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder to get care when they do.
If a senior has SAD, they'll experience the following signs and symptoms:
1. Feeling Depressed All the Time
If a senior has seasonal affective disorder, they will most likely feel unhappy and agitated during particular periods of the year when the seasons change.
2. Changes in Appetite
Extreme changes in appetite occur in seniors who have seasonal affective disorder. Seniors who experience increased appetite or don't want to eat anything whenever the seasons change, may have SAD. Sometimes, changes in appetite can lead to cravings for carbohydrates, leading to overeating and rapid weight gain.
3. Neglecting the Activities They Used to Enjoy
If a senior loses interest in activities, they once found enjoyable during late fall or whenever winter sets in, it is a sign that they may have SAD.
4. Experiencing Sleeping Problems During Seasonal Changes
Seniors that have trouble getting out of bed in the winter or sleep too little in the summer may be experiencing seasonal depression.
5. Constantly Feeling Exhausted
If a senior becomes less active than usual or is restless all the time, it could be an indication that they have seasonal affective disorder.
6. Experiencing Pain and Aches That Cannot be Explained
Seasonal depression may cause seniors to continue experiencing unexplained pains and aches whenever seasons change.
7. Having Trouble Concentrating
Seasonal depression may be the reason why a senior finds it difficult to concentrate when the seasons are changing.
8. Experiencing More Physical Health Issues When Seasons Change
If a senior is more susceptible to physical health conditions such as colds and infections around the time of year when the seasons change, they may have SAD.
SAD symptoms frequently resemble those of other medical illnesses. If you observe these symptoms seeking assistance would be a wise first move.
If you or an elderly loved one have been dealing with seasonal affective disorder, we are here to support you. Senior Helpers Charlotte is the premier provider of in-home senior care in Charlotte, Pineville, and Concord. We offer specialist care for seniors dealing with seasonal affective disorder.
For more information on how we may assist you in preventing and minimizing the symptoms of SAD, get in touch with us today.