The document provides tips for reducing winter blues in seniors during the holiday season. Feelings of isolation, loss of loved ones, and declining health can contribute to sadness and depression in seniors during this time. Suggested activities to lift spirits include spending quality time together through games, cooking, photo sharing, and reminiscing about past holidays and memories. Seeking professional help may be needed if signs of depression like persistent sadness or loss of interest persist.

1. Tips for Reducing the Winter Blues

2. The holiday season is know to be a joyous time of cheer. A chance to
reconnect with loved ones, give and receive gifts and reflect on what
means most to you.
It’s a chance to take time off work and relax with a cup of egg nog and
maybe a cookie or two.

3. For seniors, however, holidays may elevate feelings of nostalgia and
melancholy that can lead to sadness.
This brings out depression, which is amplified during the months of
November, December and January. Seniors are especially susceptible to
feelings of isolation and depression because of health and money issues or
even the loss of a spouse or other loved one.

4. It can be as simple as the sadness of growing old. They could be
excluded from travel while others get together, which intensifies
the feelings of loneliness and isolation.

5. The American Geriatrics Society recommends seniors volunteer at a
local charity organization, attend parties and have family and friends
visit throughout the season.
Also, stay away from alcohol, a natural depressant which only makes
matters worse. Talking through your feelings with loved one can relieve
stress and determine if professional attention is needed.

6. Here are a few ideas on how to lift your elderly loved
ones’ spirits this holiday season and beyond:
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7. 1. Play a favorite game or spend time cooking a special meal.
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8. 2. Lend a hand addressing holiday cards to friends and family is
a great way to stay connected with distant loved ones.
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9. 3. Have a sing-a-long to sing their favorite songs.
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10. 4. Bake together.
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11. 5. Drive through town at night to notice festive lights and other
decorations.
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12. 6. Go through old photos and help them to assemble a
scrapbook of all their most cherished memories.
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13. 7. Share past memories, which emphasizes your interest in
them.
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14. 8. Watch old home movies to reminisce.
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15. 9. Take a walk around the neighborhood if weather allows.
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16. 10. Buy some painting canvases and do a painting activity
together and hang your art around their home.
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17. It’s important to note depression is much more serious and long term
than sadness.
Signs of depression include persistent sadness, uncontrollable crying, a loss
of pleasure in your favorite activities, restlessness, fatigue, feelings of
worthlessness or guilt and thoughts of death or suicide.

18. Remember, the blues can be defeated. By simply spending time
together, it will lift holiday spirits and inspire feelings of peace and
happiness.
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