Depression continues to be a growing concern among senior populations. More than 20% of adults over the age of 65 live with depression, according to data released by Mental Health America. Root causes may be attributed to widowhood, social isolation, and senior-related illnesses like chronic pain.
Talking to a physician is the first step seniors should take in managing depression. Discussing the issue with family and loved ones is another important step. It’s also a time to explore methods for depression management like senior nutrition, activities to decrease isolation, and improved sleep.
Learn more about navigating depression in seniors to find the right management plan for you or your loved one.
Senior Nutrition Strategies for Elderly Depression
Healthy depression management relies on a number of factors, like improved communication, independence, and cognitive stimulation. These types of strategies must be undergirded with the right senior wellness plan. The first step in any wellness plan is to improve nutrition.
Start by talking to a physician or nutritionist about creating a senior nutrition plan. You can also fine-tune this plan toward effective depression management.
The Mediterranean diet is highly recommended by Harvard Health for depression management. The foods that comprise this diet are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants.
The list includes:
- Dark leafy greens
- Legumes
- Oily fish
- Olive oil
- Whole grains and vegetables
You can also take omega-3 supplements with meals. Higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids in the system have also been associated with lower levels of depression. B-12, a vitamin found in seafood, has also been linked with lower depression rates.
More Foods for Coping with Depression in Seniors
Another food to add to your depression management diet plan is Turkey. This protein is famous for its tryptophan content, a protein that helps produce more serotonin in the body. Increasing serotonin levels is essential for managing depression; you can do this through nutrition, exercise, meditation, activity engagement, and positive thinking.
Daily fresh air and sunshine help manage depression symptoms in elderly people. Therefore, foods rich in vitamin D should also go on the list. Milk is often the first food that comes to mind, but you can replace dairy with plant-based milk fortified with vitamin D.
Plenty of healthy cereals are fortified with vitamins and minerals to manage senior depression. A healthy breakfast with a dose of fresh air creates a positive start to the day, an essential coping strategy for senior depression.
Senior living communities like SummerHouse Alexandria understand the necessity of a healthy start for seniors. That’s why the community provides chef-prepared breakfasts, morning coffee, and light exercises to start mornings off right.
Managing Age-related Depression Tips for Socialization
A shared hurdle for senior populations is social isolation.
This issue increases with age for a number of reasons, from health conditions to widowhood. Concerns over social isolation are a common reason for joining a senior living community; these community structures are designed to boost socialization, cognitive success, and senior mental health support.
Now is an excellent time to consider the benefits of moving into a community like SummerHouse Alexandria. The community hosts a monthly social calendar packed with daily activities to enrich senior wellness and socialization.
Prospective residents are encouraged to book a tour of the community and talk to the activities director about senior activities and events.
Activities typically include:
- Senior-friendly games like bingo and playing cards
- Light morning exercise and walks
- Meet and greet events (ice cream socials, coffee hours, etc.)
- Movie nights
- Wellness sessions
- Arts, crafts, and music
These group activities give seniors a chance to come out of their shell and bond with fellow residents. Many seniors share similar struggles with depression due to isolation, health issues, and widowhood. Engaging in activities helps seniors refocus their minds on positive outcomes.
Seniors are encouraged to discover new hobbies or rediscover past interests like art, tai chi, movies, and dance. Outings to local attractions may also be scheduled to enrich senior life.
Dining hours are some of the biggest highlights of senior community life. All meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, come chef-prepared. The dining space is also designed for socialization; it’s a great way to meet new people and connect over a meal.
Staying Connected With Family and Loved Ones
Keeping a consistent communication schedule with family, friends, and loved ones is one of the most valuable coping strategies for senior depression. It’s especially important for widows and widowers, seniors who live alone, and those transitioning to senior community life. Setting a time for weekly phone chats is an excellent start; weekends may be ideal since working family members are free.
This is a good time to transition to a mobile phone if you still depend on a landline. This allows family members to stay in touch via texts; loved ones can also set up group texts to keep everyone in the loop. Families can also save money on mobile group plans.
Are you or your senior loved one internet savvy?
Make sure to set up an email account. Email clients like Gmail are completely free and come with a host of features to stay connected, including video messaging. There are also free video calling apps like Facetime, Whatsapp, and Skype.
Remember to visit senior loved ones regularly to help manage or prevent depression symptoms. Keep seniors up-to-date on the latest family news. Bring plenty of pictures for making scrapbooks; this method is effective for both memory care and depression management.
Visiting family members are encouraged to visit on Grandparents Day and partake in community events.
Start Managing Depression in Seniors
It’s time to take the first step toward senior depression management. Remember the above strategies for senior nutrition, activities, socialization, and family communication.
Don’t let depression in seniors prevent a path toward successful aging. The community at SummerHouse Alexandria is designed to create a welcoming, safe, and enriching atmosphere for local seniors. Read our testimonials from happy residents and their families to discover how dedicated our staff is to our community.
Book a tour to meet our team and discover our passion for senior wellness and connection. Contact us today to discuss your goals for senior living. We’re a team of trained senior living professionals local to the Alexandria area committed to providing a loving and supportive environment.
