When January rolls around, the reality of winter truly sets in. The days are long, dark, and cold, which can lead to a dip in mood. Winter blues, or the more serious seasonal affective disorder (SAD), often occur due to limited daylight hours. Daylight affects the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone, which can cause lethargy and symptoms of depression when produced in higher amounts.
If you've noticed changes in your mood since the season began, you're not alone. Here are some tips for older adults to find joy during the winter months and to overcome these feelings.
- Don’t Stay Inside
Freezing temperatures might not make you want to bundle up and head outside but doing so can benefit your mental health. Fresh air increases your vitamin D levels, boosts your immune system, improves your mood, and even enhances your memory. Dress in warm layers, grab a hot drink, and get moving.
Before stepping outside, ensure you're wearing shoes with good traction to stay safe and avoid falling on slippery ice.
- Schedule Activities Throughout Your Week
After the holiday season, it can feel like everything comes to a halt during winter. During this lull, make regular plans. Join a book club, start a knitting circle, go out for lunch with loved ones, or learn a new language. Regularly engaging in activities you enjoy can do wonders for your mood.
It's even better if your plans involve friends and family. Spending time with loved ones gives you the satisfaction of quality time, which is incredibly beneficial. Whether you talk about what ails you or simply enjoy laughter together, it makes a difference.
- Find Beauty in Winter
Despite the longer nights and gray weather, there's still so much to enjoy. Freshly fallen snow, cozy yet stylish clothes, hot chocolate, and a crackling fireplace are all things we can only enjoy this time of year. Celebrate these aspects. Noting these special factors of the season can make your life a little brighter.
- Incorporate Hygge into Your Life
“Hygge” (pronounced “hooga”) is a Danish practice that encourages enjoying the simple things in life. This is especially relevant during winter when Denmark sees limited sunlight. The word refers to “a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment and wellbeing.” To practice hygge, create a cozy environment you want to come home to. Have daily rituals you look forward to, like lighting a candle and reading with a hot drink or watching a movie and painting.
Practicing mindfulness is also crucial. Being present in the moment allows you to be more in tune with your emotions and the simple pleasures in life.
- Care at Home in the Winter
As we explore ways for older adults to find joy during winter, it's essential to remember that assistance is available to ensure these moments are as comfortable and safe as possible. Home Instead can provide invaluable support to aging adults looking to make the most of the season. Whether it's helping with daily tasks, companionship, or running errands, our home care professionals are dedicated to enhancing your quality of life.
Learn more about the services we provide by calling 601-261-2114.
