Seasonal Depression  |  February 1, 2021

Recognizing & Treating Seasonal Depression in Halifax’s Seniors

Learn how our caregivers can help to prevent seasonal depression

Seasonal affective disorder, also known by its abbreviated name – SAD, is a type of seasonal depression related to shifting seasons. In most cases, it affects people in the fall and winter months, but it can occur in spring and early summer sometimes. As advised by the Canadian Mental Health Association, this recognized type of clinical depression calls for professional diagnosis and treatment.

During the late fall and winter months, as days grow shorter and daylight becomes scarce, as much as 20% of Canadians of all ages experience mild to severe symptoms of winter-onset seasonal affective disorder.

How Common Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Though seasonal depression is predominant in young adults, it affects seniors too. Older adults diagnosed with other types of depression can experience aggravated symptoms associated with the isolating effects of harsh winter months. Identifying and treating SAD is critical for older adults as they are an age group at greater risk of committing suicide, according to the Public Health Agency for Canada.

Signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder

A person affected with this disorder will show signs typically associated with common depression such as sadness, anxiety, irritability, social withdrawal, loss of interest in normal activities, lack of concentration, and so on. Other symptoms of winter-onset seasonal depression include:

• Overeating and weight gain
• Amplified craving for carbohydrates
• Fatigue
• Oversleeping
• Increased sensitivity to social rejection

As winter-onset SAD is closely related to a decrease in daylight, it is more common in those living at higher latitudes. It is that very reduced exposure to sunlight that alters our biological clock that regulates mood, sleep cycles, and hormones. Another explanation is that the brain neurotransmitters may be altered in persons affected by SAD.

Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder

Light therapy that utilizes a specially designed lightbox, combined with antidepressants and behavioral therapy, is often recommended to fight off the effects of SAD. Other means of helping seniors prevent the rise of seasonal depression include:

• Keeping curtains open to allow as much daylight as possible
• Spending more time outdoors when the weather permits
• Eating a well-balanced diet rich in vitamin D and minerals
• Adopting a light exercise regimen and stay physically active
• Engaging in hobbies, community events, and social calls to prevent feelings of isolation

Comfort Keepers Can Help

At Comfort Keepers, our locally owned and operated Halifax office can deliver a support system designed to fight off depression and boost senior wellness. Our highly trained caregivers can provide your loved one with meaningful companionship and customized assistance with all sorts of activities of daily living. We help mitigate social isolation and help clients achieve and maintain the highest quality of life possible, continuing to live a healthy, happy life in their own home.

Contact Comfort Keepers in Halifax at 902-201-5522 to learn more about the benefits of scheduling in-home care for an elderly loved one in Nova Scotia and get started with your personalized care plan for Mom or Dad today.

Share This Post: