As the days grow shorter and colder, as the temperatures drop and the nights get longer, you might feel like a grumpy bear getting ready for hibernation. I know I do. These feelings can be overwhelming at times as the long winter months stretch ahead. As if this is not enough to deal with, BAM, the holidays hit. With all the cold and “festive cheer,” for many, a sense of feeling alone and anxiousness can cause stress and get in the way of celebration. Winter can bring more than just frost on the windows, it can also bring a few extra worries. Especially for some seniors, the transition to winter can be difficult, as it often leads to a reduction in physical activity, and an increased sense of isolation, especially for seniors without families. It can be harder to get out or get around leading to less social interactions as well as less time outdoors, less sunshine, and less fresh air. No wonder you feel like a grumpy bear with all of these factors combined with holiday related concerns.
Understanding Seasonal Anxiety and Stress
Feelings of Isolation: With colder weather, its’s easier for some seniors to feel cut off from friends and family. We all get a bit of cabin fever, not wanting to leave the house or go out into the cold. Shovelling snow and going about our daily activities and chores can feel like a huge challenge. There is no shame in asking for help in the winter season. If you live in a house, hiring a snow removal company to salt stairs, and remove snow from your walkways and driveways can be the perfect solution. Coupled with the right footwear and outerwear, this will help keep you safe and more confident when going outdoors. If budget
is an issue, then ask a family member or a neighbour if they can help through the snowy months. Most people love to help, they just are not sure how, so asking for what you need is a great idea. The same goes for groceries. If you still drive take a cab and ask the driver to carry groceries and assist you to the front door as well. Many grocery stores provide home delivery and often will allow you to order on-line or by phone. Just because it’s freezing outside doesn’t mean you have to become a couch potato. Dance like nobody’s watching. Perhaps just watching a hallmark movie in your pj’s sipping hot coco or curling up
with a good book can make you feel uplifted. If you are alone, create your own traditions, or reach out to your local retirement community or community centres in order to participate in their Christmas dinner and celebrations. You might even consider a short term winter stay at your local retirement residence, in order to enjoy company, a little pampering with meals etc., that could feel like a mini vacation.
Financial Concerns: Holiday expenses, coupled with fixed incomes, can add financial pressures. Simplify giving by opting for homemade items, like baked goods or knitted scarves, small gestures, a phone call, cards, and letters, or planning a future get together rather than material gifts, can all mean so much to so many.
Grief and Loss: The holidays may trigger memories of loved ones who are no longer here, leading to feelings of sadness or anxiety. Creating your own new traditions that incorporate some traditions that you shared in the past can solve this challenge. Grief is not about forgetting but celebrating the memory. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends and other family members if possible, to help in the creation of new traditions.
Additional Tips for Managing Winter Months:
Stay Active Indoors: While outdoor activities might be limited, there are plenty of ways to stay physically active indoors. Chair exercises, yoga, and stretching can help maintain mobility and release endorphins that combat stress, there are many options available on-line or on T.V.
Connect with Others: Isolation can increase feelings of anxiety, so stay connected with loved ones through phone calls, and video chats. Joining local seniors’ groups or activities, even virtually, will help foster a sense of community.
Plan for the Holidays: Christmas and other holiday celebrations can bring anxiety due to family expectations, loneliness, or financial strain. Small gestures mean the most. Knowing that this is a difficult time of year for some, try and adapt your plans and bolster your sense of well being and happiness.
Set Realistic Expectations: The holiday season doesn’t have to be perfect. Focus on the aspects you enjoy the most, whether that’s sharing a meal with family or a friend or reflecting on cherished memories. Let go of the pressure to do it all.
Practice Relaxation Techniques: Be Mindful and Practice Techniques. Techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and muscle relaxation can be effective tools for reducing stress. Consider setting aside a few minutes each day to find a quiet spot in order to relax and decompress.
Light Therapy: For some seniors, reduced daylight in winter can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder, (SAD), a common type of temporary depression linked to the changing seasons and sun depravation. Light therapy in which individuals sit near a light box for a set period of time each day, can alleviate symptoms. You can purchase a light box in most drugstores or order on-line. Consider talking to your doctor about taking a vitamin D supplement.
When To Seek Help
If feelings of anxiety or sadness become overwhelming, it’s important to seek help. Its ok to ask for help from a health care provider or counsellor who specializes in senior mental health.
In Closing: I would like to say that this article is not meant to put a damper on the winter months or holiday season, but rather provide you with tools to manage them, should any of these issues arise. By staying safe, active, connected, and mindful, we can all enjoy the winter months and the season in a way
that brings us COMFORT AND JOY.
Kommentit