Post-Holiday Depression in the Elderly

The holidays are over and the new year has begun.

While there is a lot of information about holiday blues, there is also a similar issue with post-holiday depression.

Everyone has returned home after many fun-filled days of presents and fabulous meals. With the family holiday visits a thing of the past, many elderly may come down with the post-holiday blues. It is easy to fall into this post-holiday depression, but there are many things you can do to avoid it.

Battling the Blues Post Holiday

Here are some tips.

1. Do something different. This year, change it up a bit. Whether it is a new hobby, listening to an audiobook or going out to a new restaurant, trying something new each week or each month can help keep depression at bay and life interesting.

2. Stay on schedule. The holidays disrupt schedules. However, once they are over, getting back to a normal routine is key to avoiding how the disruption, which is often accompanied by loss of sleep, can affect moods negatively.

3. Exercise is important at every age. If the cold of winter keeps your senior loved one indoors, try a video exercise program or one on cable television. While exercise may not feel good at the time, the benefits are well worth it.

4. Eat sensibly. After all those heavy holiday meals, a more normal diet is in order. Eating healthfully keeps you feeling fit — physically and emotionally.

5. Don’t miss medication doses. Make sure that you’re up-to-date on your refills, too.

6. Ask for Help. A network of close friends and family to turn to when things get tough is critical especially during a depression. Asking them for help is important.

For more tips, read our latest blog post Avoiding Elderly Post Holiday Depression AFTER the Celebrations for even more tips for keeping your senior loved ones happy as they settle into the new year.

Always here to help!