Depression in Older Adults – Symptoms, Risks, & How to Get Help

If youre looking for a rewarding way to spend your free time, why not consider volunteering with seniors? Volunteering with seniors can offer you many benefits, such as: Making New Friends and ConnectionsSeniors have a wealth of life experience and wisdom to share, and they can also be great listeners and companions. You can learn from their stories, enjoy their humor, and support them in their challenges. You might even find a mentor or a role model among them.Improving Your Health and Well-BeingVolunteering with seniors can boost your mood, reduce your stress, and increase your self-esteem. It can also help you stay physically active, mentally stimulated, and socially engaged. Studies have shown that volunteering can lower your blood pressure, improve your immune system, and even extend your lifespan. Giving Back to Your CommunitySeniors are valuable members of our society, but they often face isolation, loneliness, and neglect. By volunteering with seniors, you can show them that they are not forgotten, that they are respected, and that they matter. You can also help them access the resources and services they need, such as transportation, health care, or social activities. Developing New Skills and InterestsVolunteering with seniors can expose you to new perspectives, cultures, and hobbies. You can also learn new skills or improve existing ones, such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, or empathy. Volunteering can also enhance your resume and career prospects, as it demonstrates your commitment, initiative, and teamwork.There are many ways to volunteer with seniors, depending on your availability, preferences, and goals. You can:Visit seniors in their homes or in care facilities. You can chat with them, play games with them, read to them, or help them with daily tasksJoin or organize social events for seniors. You can host a tea party, a movie night, a bingo game, or a dance class. You can also invite seniors to join you in your hobbies or interests, such as gardening, knitting, or hikingTeach seniors new skills or technologies. You can help them learn how to use a computer, a smartphone, or the internet. You can also teach them a language, a musical instrument, or a craftAdvocate for seniors rights and needs. You can raise awareness about the issues and challenges that seniors face in your community. You can also support campaigns or organizations that work for seniors welfare and dignityBenefits of Volunteering at Grace Pointe Senior Care Community of Greeley, ColoradoVolunteering with seniors can be a fulfilling and enjoyable experience for both you and them. It can enrich your life in many ways and make a positive difference in theirs. If youre interested in volunteering with seniors, contact Grace Pointe Senior Care of Greeley. We will match you with suitable opportunities and provide you with training and guidance. Volunteering with seniors is more than just a good deed. Its an opportunity to grow as a person and to connect with others who have so much to offer. So dont hesitate to give it a try. You might be surprised by how much you gain from it.

As we age, its important to acknowledge that this phase of life brings with it not only wisdom and experience but also its own set of challenges. One such challenge that many seniors may encounter is depression. While aging is a natural process, so is maintaining good mental health. In this blog, we will explore aging and depression and how this affects seniors.Symptoms of Depression in SeniorsDepression doesnt discriminate by age; it can affect anyone, including seniors. However, the symptoms may manifest differently in older adults. Common signs of depression in seniors include persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness, loss of interest in once-enjoyable activities, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness, physical aches, and even thoughts of death or suicide.Shedding Light on PrevalenceOlder adults are at an increased risk for depression; however, depression is not a normal part of aging. It is estimated that anywhere from 1% to 5% of older adults are affected by depression. The social and health-related changes that accompany aging, such as isolation due to retirement or health issues, can contribute to these feelings of sadness and despair.Causes of Depression in SeniorsThe most common cause of depression in seniors is a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Physical health conditions like chronic pain, heart disease, or neurological disorders can trigger or exacerbate depressive symptoms. Furthermore, the loss of loved ones, feelings of loneliness, decreased mobility, and a reduced sense of purpose can all contribute to the onset of depression.Protecting Seniors Mental HealthWhile navigating the waters of aging and mental health, seniors can take proactive steps to protect their well-being:Stay Connected: Engaging in social activities, maintaining relationships, and participating in group settings can help alleviate feelings of isolation.Stay Active: Regular physical activity has been shown to positively impact mood and overall mental health.Seek Help: Encourage open communication about feelings and thoughts, and dont hesitate to seek professional help when needed.Cultivate Hobbies: Pursuing interests and hobbies can provide a sense of purpose and enjoyment.Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and staying hydrated can contribute to a more stable mood.Mindfulness and Relaxation: Practices like meditation, yoga, and deep breathing can help manage stress and promote emotional well-being.As we embark on the journey of aging, lets recognize that mental health is an integral part of our well-being. Depression may knock on the door, but with awareness, understanding, and the right tools, we can navigate its challenges and find joy in our golden years. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and by embracing our vulnerabilities, we pave the way for a happier and healthier future.At Grace Management, Inc., our residents health and wellness is our priority. Are you interested in learning more? Head over to the communities page on our website and find a community near you!

Sometimes I wonder what Im a-gonna to doCause there aint no cure for the summertime blues.In 1959, Eddie Cochran penned and performed this catchy song. Little did he likely realize he had coined a phrase describing a real mental/emotional issue. Known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), this form of depression is usually associated with winter, but approximately 10-30% of people are affected during warmer months the summertime blues.It is uncertain as to why this seasonal reversal happens, but there could be several contributing factors such as:abrupt schedule changes with less structureuncomfortable heat/humidityabsence of friends and family due to vacationschanges in brain chemistrycultural pressure to feel light-hearted and happynegative body image issues due to more skin exposure or bathing suit requirementssleep pattern disruption from longer days and shorter nightsNo matter the exact reasons, feelings of sadness in the summer do happen. Consider these helpful tips towards addressing and combatting them:Establish a summer routine as best you can. Accept that it may undergo additional changes, and that is OK.Incorporate exercise in your day, even if it is gentle, like stretching or chair movement.Get enough sleep. If possible, keep the same bedtime schedule. Allow yourself time to wind down, even if it is light outside, or consider using a sleep mask. You also can try earplugs if your neighborhood is noisy or other family members are still up and active.Stay hydrated. Water is often overlooked as a factor of fatigue and negative emotions. Try keeping a glass by the sink or a water bottle in the car or carry one with you while going about your day.Choose healthy foods that will nourish and feel good in your body.Keep a tab on how much you are isolated. Try to engage in activities with others some specific suggestions below!* Protect yourself from heat and glare with sunglasses, hats and lightweight clothing.* Be kind to yourself. Identify your triggers and reflect on ways to overcome them.* Show yourself compassion and give yourself space to adapt, process and grow.At Kavod Senior Life, we provide opportunities for both community members and residents alike to stay engaged and protect from depression, SAD or otherwise. These include gathering for healthy meals (once a day in Senior Living, three times a day in Assisted Living), or participating in activities, outdoor gardening, and spiritual programs including mindfulness and coffee chats with our chaplain. Residents can also talk to our staffed Care Coordinators (like social workers) to get additional help and connect with resources. We also have supportive health and wellness classes and services such as yoga, dancing and more. If you are struggling with SAD and are local to Denver, we welcome you to Kavod to participate with us and keep yourself emotionally healthy. We hope this information and our resources will help you have an enjoyable, positive summer and chase away those troublesome blues. For more information, please call 303-399-1146.