Winter can be filled with fun traditions, delicious treats and, of course, meaningful time with friends and family. But winter can also be cold, dark and gloomy for months on end, which can lead to some very real cold-weather blues. This is especially true for seniors, says Chrissy Ross, Executive Director of Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee.
“It’s often hard for seniors to get out during winter months, which leads to boredom, loneliness and depression,” Chrissy explains. “It’s essential for caregivers, friends and family to help seniors find ways to enjoy themselves, express themselves and keep their spirits bright beyond the holidays.”
To make the winter months a little more merry, we’ve compiled a list of easy-to-do activities that are perfect for seniors and adults of all ages. Because we know this time of year can be hard on caregivers, too, we’ve listed some tips for helping combat seasonal depression so that this season can be happy and fulfilling.
Fun Activities for Banishing Winter Blues
Making art. Art comes in many forms, and there are seemingly endless ways to create it in meaningful ways. Whether you’re doing a group activity or an individual endeavor, art is extremely fulfilling and therapeutic. Beyond painting, sculpting and drawing, activities like baking, knitting or sewing are also artistic activities that can be incredibly soothing.
Journaling. Writing down one’s thoughts is a tried and true way for helping find inner calm, express creativity, work through issues and help make sense of life. Journaling can take place anywhere and at any time – some people enjoy journaling before going to bed so they can relax and reflect on the day; others prefer to do it over their morning coffee. There are many different ways people can journal, whether that be a dream journal, random scribblings throughout the day or listing things you’re grateful for. Try different approaches to see what speaks to you the most.
Reading. Few things are more enjoyable than being transported to a different place or learning something new thanks to a good book. Reading helps boost cognitive function, reduces stress and is overall a wonderful activity to do in the winter. If your loved one’s reading abilities are declining, consider reading out loud to them as a fun activity.
Meditation. Just five minutes of meditation helps lower blood pressure, reduce stress, boost well-being and improve mood. Start out small to get the feel for it, and as you become more experienced, expand your practice time and approaches until you find something that resonates. There are many different guided practices available online and through smartphone apps, so whether you’re a savvy meditator or just starting out, you can find an option that’s just your speed.
Reminiscing. People living with dementia see the past more clearly than the present, and reminiscing with them through photos, objects and your own stories will help unlock those memories and bring you closer to your loved one.
Caring for Yourself This Winter
Stress is no stranger to a caregiver, and during the winter months, that stress can become pretty heavy. Here are some things you can be doing to care for yourself and your loved one.
Exercise daily. Get up and get moving, and you’ll feel so much better, even in cold weather. If a brisk walk around the block leaves you chilled, opt for indoor activities like yoga, stationary biking or anything else that gets your heart pumping and your blood moving.
Eat a healthy diet. It’s important to make sure you’re eating well so you can feel as good as possible. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables, avoid too much fat and salt and opt for lean proteins and whole grains.
Get some sunshine. Vitamin D, or the “sunshine” vitamin, boosts moods, regulates our sleep/wake cycle and keeps your immune system strong. While getting it from natural sources like whole milk, certain vegetables and (of course) natural light, you may want to add an additional supplement to make sure you’re getting enough of it this winter.
Stay socially connected. It’s essential to maintain those connections with friends and family, even if it’s just through texts or phone calls. Staying emotionally connected will help reduce stress and anxiety and help lighten your load.
Winter can bring woes and blues for everyone, but by following these tips, you and your loved one can have a winter wonderland of a season this year.
Peace of Mind for Cape Cod Seniors and Their Families
Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee provides memory care assisted living that is comfortable, positive, safe and engaging. Exclusively dedicated to caring for those with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, our community creates a wellness-focused lifestyle that promotes dignity, respects individual preferences and makes a positive impact on the lives of our residents every day.
Dedicated Memory Care
Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee offers compassionate dementia care and unique programs that are tailored to meet the physical, cognitive and emotional needs of each resident – throughout every stage of disease progression. Residents can age in place comfortably and with dignity while families gain peace of mind.
Supportive, Engaging Services
At Bridges® by EPOCH at Mashpee, we offer a program of care and services that celebrates life and supports individual strengths. Our compassionate and engaging approach adapts to the unique challenges and individuality of each resident. Our memory care professionals receive specialized and ongoing training designed to help residents maximize their independence in a secure, calm environment.
Bridges® by EPOCH is New England’s largest stand-alone memory care assisted living provider.
Contact us today to learn more.