facilities for alzheimer's

Dealing with Seasonal Affective Disorder in Facilities for Alzheimer’s | Ashland Ne

As winter approaches, many people feel sadness and loss of energy due to the cold weather and lack of vitamin D. The lack of sunshine can cause one’s mood to grow dark too like irritability, difficulty concentrating, change in appetite, and tendency to oversleep. People in areas with fewer hours of daylight suffer seasonal affective disorder. For those suffering from depression due to weather changes and living in facilities for Alzheimer’s Ashland NE,  treatment is critical.

Whilst it is normal to experience mood changes during the long winter months, many overlook that senior adults are more prone to this seasonal disorder. Caregivers in memory care facilities must report any signs of depression to the facility physician or primary care provider so screening for SAD can be facilitated.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?

Seasonal Affective Disorder or SAD is a type of recurrent depression that occurs during the same season every year. People diagnosed with SAD show signs or symptoms within the fall and winter months with episodes declining during spring and warmer months.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is affecting 10 million Americans. The disorder influences your day-to-day living, how you think, and how you feel.

The exact cause of SAD is not yet determined but has been linked to the neurotransmitter serotonin, responsible for manufacturing melatonin, a hormone in the body that makes humans sleepy.

According to research, melatonin concentration drops to the lowest during the winter. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) may be genetic as some studies observe the trait to run in families.

SAD symptoms vary from mild to severe which include:

  • Difficulty in concentrating or thinking
  • A sudden change of appetite (carbohydrates cravings or overeating)
  • Change in sleep pattern (oversleeping)
  • Feeling sad, depressed mood
  • Lack of motivation
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Irritability
  • Increased anxiety
  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain

How is SAD Treated?

For seniors in facilities for Alzheimer’s Ashland NE, seasonal affective disorder can be manageable. So, it is important to report sudden changes that coincide with SAD symptoms.

Treatment may vary from patient to patient, but incorporating medication, traditional therapy, and light therapy can help. In light therapy, people with SAD are exposed to artificial rays for at least two to three hours first thing in the morning.

Other treatments for SAD are the following:

  • Staying active like daily walk (weather permitting), indoor activities
  • Getting enough sleep during the long dark days of winter
  • Eating a healthy and balanced diet, vegetables and bright-colored fruits
  • Remain socially engaged
  • Listening to music

How can you help a loved one with SAD in Facilities for Alzheimer’s in Ashland NE?

If you notice that your loved one in facilities for Alzheimer’s in Ashland NE is showing signs of seasonal affective disorder or is prone to SAD, it will help to:

  • Schedule a regular visit. Seeing familiar faces can bring joy and comfort knowing people love and value them.
  • Bring or send useful gifts that will stimulate better sleeping habits like aromatherapy items, oil, diffuser, or lotion.
  • Make plans or activities specifically for the season to keep them active and engaged.
  • Purchase indoor lighting for your loved one for better exposure

Learn about our Alzheimer’s care programs at Richmont Senior Living by clicking here.


Richmont Senior Living is proud to serve Ashland, NE and the surrounding cities: Memphis, Springfield, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Waverly, Murdock, Ithaca, and Chalco

Memory Assisted Living

Tips for Celebrating Christmas in Senior Housing | Ashland NE

Christmas means spending more quality time with the people around you. Christmas is in the air and almost everyone’s tree is up. Isolation from loved ones can cause loneliness and depression for senior residents at senior housing Ashland NE. Health conditions, physical limitations, and health protocols complicate the idea of getting them to your Christmas celebration.

Fortunately, communities have adapted new ways traditions about spending time with your loved ones. Even if your loved one is not home, you can still share the spirit of giving, love, and hope.

Ways to Make Christmas Great in Senior Housing Ashland NE

 

Decorate Together

For seniors with dementia, it is best to ask facility caregivers for recommendations as too much decoration can be confusing. You may start with a low-key approach or simple decorations to see your loved one’s reaction.

But for seniors without cognitive problems, you can spend time and get creative together. Set up a mini tree in their room, a wreath on the door, and decor around the room.

Join Christmas Festivities Together

Most senior housing communities host pre-Christmas meals and activities where families of residents are invited. Join in the fun and get creative during the arts and crafts activity. It would be great to bring the whole family for the experience to be extra memorable.

Christmas Visit or Lunch Date

If family visits are now allowed in senior housing Ashland NE, then your loved one would be happy to see you. Ask a few members of the family to join you for a Christmas lunch or an afternoon snack at the facility.

Bring family treats, presents, and family Christmas stories to bring back the old times. If your loved one does not have dementia and you can take care of her/his physical needs, lunch at your favorite restaurant would be great.

Celebration From a Distance

If you are far away or unable to visit due to a hectic schedule, or health restrictions, organize a virtual Christmas get-together for everyone to join in as long as an Internet connection is available.

You can host a virtual Christmas lunch or dinner online for family members who cannot make it on the holidays. Organize a virtual exchange gift or something new to bring the family closer. Receiving packages and seeing familiar faces online will bring joy to your loved one in Richmont senior housing Ashland NE.

There is always something exciting and special about Christmas. Despite the ongoing obstacles caused by the pandemic which left families and residents in senior housing separated, there are still ways to connect.

When it is still not safe to travel or facilities do not accept visitors, virtual ways will bring the holiday joy.


Richmont Senior Living is proud to serve Ashland, NE and the surrounding cities: Memphis, Springfield, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Waverly, Murdock, Ithaca, and Chalco