December 9, 2022
For many the holiday season is a joyful, happy time built around togetherness, family, and friends, but for some it can be very stressful and filled with overwhelming expectations, depression, and anxiety. The holiday season can be a reminder of those who are not with us anymore, financial limitations, sadness from being separated from loved ones, and the loss of treasured traditions. Celebrating this time of year doesn’t have to be a sad or overwhelming time. It can be a peaceful time of reminiscing, volunteering, spending time with friends, and creating new traditions!
Some common causes of depression during the holiday season are lack of family, being overwhelmed with holiday stressors, physical and mental fatigue, and anxiety about family gatherings. Signs and symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress we should monitor for during the holiday season include difficulty concentrating, difficulty working, and changes in sleep and appetite.
We can help eliminate the holiday blues for our residents by being patient and kind, as well as being present and engaging. Loneliness is one of the most common causes of depression in the elderly during the holiday season. We can combat it with encouragement to participate in group activities and showing them kindness and love. It is important we make the holiday traditions meaningful and pleasant.
The holiday season means different things to each of us. The holidays are about family, friends, food, and tradition. For many, the smells, taste, and decorations bring memories flooding back. We at The Kentridge Senior Living hope some of these ideas will be helpful as the holidays approach.
The KentRidge Senior Living in Kent, OH offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near University Hospital Portage Medical Center with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Sunny Hill Golf & Recreation Inc, Stow-Kent Shopping Center, Kent State Univeristy Museum, The Portage Hike & Bike Trail, and Mad Cap Brewing Company.
