Signs & Symptoms of Holiday Depression Among Seniors

For most of us, the holidays are a time for celebration; getting together with family and friends, entertaining, parties, shopping and enjoying the mood with high spirits and good will. But for many seniors, the holiday season is not a precursor of joy, but of deep sadness and loneliness.

Many seniors, whether living at home or in a long-term care facility may be prone to the 'Holiday Blues', but for others, the symptoms go way beyond feelings of blasé. For some, the holiday season is a time when many seniors fall prey to such overwhelming depression that it's difficult to prevent a slide into total emotional isolation until eventually, quality of life is threatened.

For many seniors, the holidays bring back memories of better, happier times. Loss of a spouse or one friend after another takes their toll on survivors, and nostalgic memories of past holiday celebrations can lead to present cases of severe melancholy. Seniors also face fears that they can't get around as easily as they once did, and travel becomes increasingly difficult and stressful. To their disappointment, they feel forced to remain homebound, missing out on festivities.

As the season grows cold and rain and snow blankets many states, seniors aren't able to get out to shop, either for groceries or gifts for family. Making a trip to the post office to mail Christmas Greetings or gifts for relatives may appear overwhelming.

The American Geriatric Society's Foundation for Health in Aging suggests that it's up to caretakers and loved ones to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression. In many cases, residents of long-term care facilities may not have been present long enough for a professional caretaker to recognize or notice the subtle changes that occur as the holiday seasons approach. Family members are an important link in the care given to loved ones, and it's up to them to alert staff of any unusual habits or behaviors developing in their relatives.

Some signs and symptoms of depression include, but are not limited to:

* Feeling 'down' or 'blue'

* Change of appetite

* Growing irritability or impatience

* Loss of interest in activities

* Weight loss

* Difficulty or changes in sleeping habits

* Lethargy

* Growing feelings of worthlessness

* Talking about death

While we all go through stages in our lives where one or more of these symptoms arise, most are able, through family support, counseling or medical therapy, to overcome them. It's especially important for family, staff and friends to be aware of these danger signals and watch for them.

Be aware also that in many cases, the signs of depression also mimic signs of infection, such as loss of appetite, irritability, weight loss or a change in sleeping habits. Rule out a physical reason for these symptoms with lab tests if necessary before addressing the emotional and mental issues.

Also be aware that depression in a loved one can take on different forms. Some seniors may become more agitated or nervous, while others grow withdrawn and silent. Some may retreat to a particular room or even location within a room while others wander aimlessly through their home. Again, it's so very important for a loved one or friend to be able to recognize a change before any treatment for depression can begin.

Some seniors can be treated with antidepressants while others are more suited to therapies that don't utilize medication. In some cases, antidepressants can cause deeper depression. Often, medications are reviewed and dosages are adapted. Encouraging your loved one to participate in activities is an option. If they balk, start small. Give them something to do in their room to start, and then gradually move them out to the living area of their home or facility. Pet therapy has received accolades from many seniors and long care facilities alike. Animals of any sort usually manage to bring a smile to most. Better yet, allow the senior or resident to participate in the care of an animal.

Nursing and long-term care facilities have Social Services departments. If you're concerned about the mental health status of your loved one, talk to them. Also let them know if your loved one has been hinting about death and dying, or speaking of suicide. Family pastors or priests can also be called to help in such cases.

There is nothing more heartbreaking that watching a senior citizen gaze endlessly out a window, waiting for loved ones or friends to come visit them over the holidays. They wait, and wait. Sometimes, their vigil is rewarded, but often times, it is not. Many cases of depression can be avoided by making sure that your loved one knows that you care about them. If you live too far away to make a holiday visit, make sure you telephone them regularly and assure them they're loved and cared for. Encourage them, if able, to join in community sponsored events and transportation.

Make sure your loved one feels a sense of worth. Offer to bring them a box of Christmas cards to fill out and then take them to the post office for them. Bring them a tree and give them the opportunity to help decorate it. Arrange for Christmas Carolers to stop by and give your loved one the chance to make hot chocolate or offer them a plate of homemade cookies. If they can't go to the holiday festivities, try to bring the festivities to them, or at least some of them.

Seniors can also be pro-active in their own care by following some basic guidelines:

* Don't isolate yourself from family and friends - if you can't go to them, invite them to your place.

* Volunteer - if you're physically able, volunteer your time in your community. Giving brings with it a great sense of pleasure and self-worth.

* Avoid alcohol!

* Don't worry if you can't buy a fantastic present for every child and grandchild. They won't mind, really!

* Share your feelings. Don't suffer in silence.

The holiday season need not be torture for seniors. Remember, we'll all be wearing those shoes someday. Think ahead of how YOU would feel in such a situation and then try to do something about it. Sometimes, all it takes is a hug and a smile. It's our responsibility to care for not only the physical health but also the mental health of our senior citizens. They have given much in their time. During the holiday season especially, it's our chance to give in return.