The holiday season is suppose to be festive and full of joy, however, it can be depressing for seniors who’ve lost loved ones or are having health or financial problems. Older adults may be overwhelmed by the ongoing holiday demands such as: parties, shopping, cooking, cleaning or even entertaining. When this happens, it can be difficult to prevent the oncoming of stress and depression. According to the American Geriatrics Society, “The 2004 suicide rate for Americans over the age of 65 was 14 per 100,000.” Here are some tips for you to decrease depression that is ignited by the holidays.
Acknowledge their feelings:
Seniors who’ve lost a loved one or have chronic health conditions can be very depressed during the holiday season. These imminent feelings of depression are normal and need to be expressed and acknowledged. You shouldn’t pressure seniors to be happy just because it’s the holidays. Instead create some ideas for that can uplift the spirits of older adults during this holiday period. Here are some suggestions:
- A trip to the movies.
- Having lunch together at a nearby favorite restaurant.
- Creating something together, such as a scrapbook or baking cookies.
- Playing their favorite card games or constructing a puzzle.