Depression During the Holidays

Holiday Memories

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and cherished traditions. But for those who have lost a loved one, the holidays can be a difficult time. Grief is tough for everyone, but it may be especially hard for older adults who are spending the holidays without a close friend or spouse. Many of the traditions that were once easy to do may now feel impossible without their loved ones. In some cases, the grief and holiday season can lead to depression. For older adults who are grieving, it’s important to reach out for support. With help, older adults can get through the tough times and enjoy the holidays again.

Isolation

The elderly may feel left out of the holiday fun because large crowds or complicated plans can be too much for them. If you see somebody sitting out, you might ask how you can help make it easier for them to participate. A little extra effort goes a long way towards making sure everyone enjoys themselves during this special time of year.

This isolation can cause them to feel depressed during what’s supposed to be a joyful season.

Signs of Depression

Depression is a major but often unnoticeable mental illness that can have dangerous consequences for all areas of sufferers’ lives. It does not care who you are, and anyone regardless of age, race, or gender can suffer from it. If you identify with any of the symptoms below, please seek help because there are many people willing to support you through this tough time.

Check out these most common signs of depression:

• Persistent sadness or empty mood
• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Loss of energy or increased fatigue
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Restlessness or irritability
• Memory problems
• Lack of motivation

What Can You Do?

Despite the fact that depression is treatable, it’s still important to seek professional help. Spending time socializing with others can actually improve your mood— even when you don’t feel like it, try making plans with friends or family. With treatment and support, most people who suffer from depression are able to effectively manage their symptoms and lead happy lives.

How Avanti Senior Living at Lafayette Helps Residents During the Holidays

For many people, the holidays are a time for family, friends, and traditions. But for seniors living in assisted living communities, the holiday season can be a time of isolation and loneliness. At Avanti Senior Living at Lafayette, we work hard to make sure our residents feel connected and loved during the holidays. We love going above and beyond to make our community festive for the holidays! We also know how important it is for residents to feel connected and engaged, so we host events and activities like crafting sessions and holiday gatherings. By creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, we help our residents enjoy the holidays despite being away from their homes and families.