Winter blues are a common experience, and many of their remedies can be naturally included in your lifestyle. Aside from a good night of sleep, reducing isolation and increasing physical activity can provide promising results. When all else fails, a relaxing walk in the sunshine can lift spirits.
According to Hopkins Medicine, the risk of seasonal affective disorder increases with age. Older adults are vulnerable to seasonal changes, especially in regions with varied climates.
Liberty Place, in Port Orchard, offers a vibrant community, even in northwest Washington. Living in a community that encourages mental and emotional health is essential for combating sadness.
Keep reading to discover how you can beat the winter blues and make the most of the upcoming season!
Most people believe that seasonal affective disorder and the winter blues are one and the same. However, there is a difference: the winter blues are a milder version of SAD.
Subtle mood changes can occur as the sun sets earlier and social events dwindle. Many people find themselves spending more time alone, which can result in increased symptoms of depression.
When you're not alone in trying to overcome cold temperatures, you can build a supportive community of friends. Liberty Place emphasizes the importance of enjoying every day of the year. With our unique amenities and programs, you'll find it easier to prioritize mental health.
The Cleveland Clinic identifies seasonal affective disorder as a form of depression. The winter blues tend to occur before the onset of SAD, offering a chance to protect your mental health.
Read along for seasonal affective disorder tips worth trying!
To increase natural light and vitamin D levels, spend more time outside. Our community grounds and the local region offer a beautiful landscape that you can explore.
Another option for increasing vitamin D is with therapeutic lights. Harvard Health found that between 40% and 60% of people with SAD experienced improvements after light therapy. You don't need a doctor's referral to get one, but it is helpful to seek guidance from your PCP beforehand.
Did you know that physical activity boosts mood-enhancing endorphins?
Here are a few ways you can increase fitness at Liberty Place:
There are many ways to naturally increase physical activity without overwhelming yourself. At Liberty Place, you can develop a unique schedule that aligns with your emotional needs.
A lack of participation can be a red flag when identifying seasonal affective disorder. Although the cooler temps seem to reduce social events, many Port Orchard options can increase connections.
Here are some of the common signs of social withdrawal:
Luckily, Liberty Place residents live in an inclusive community with plenty of ways to get involved. Whether you want a more relaxed day or a thrilling activity, you can connect with your neighbors and friends. Take a look at our Vibrant Life program, which helps residents create preference-based schedules!
Winter mood support often comes from within the home. By making subtle changes to your sleeping patterns, you can remain in better control of your emotions and mental state.
Our Bainbidge and Cascade floor plans create an ideal location to rest and reclaim happiness. When sleep patterns get disrupted by a lack of sunlight, it can be draining on the body and mind. Liberty Place offers a serene environment, where you can replenish over the winter and prepare for spring.
Prioritizing sleep health in winter can improve your well-being, far beyond the season. Additional and consistent sleep can sharpen the mind and provide strength for daily tasks.
Not everyone has seasonal mood changes; however, a large number of people feel unlike themselves when the days get shorter. With fewer chances to increase vitamin D and socialization, winter becomes a common time for people to feel "under the weather."
Having signs of depression for a short period will separate you from those with a depression diagnosis. Severe, lasting symptoms may signify depression, which can become more difficult to manage over time.
January and February are the worst months of the year for people experiencing SAD. As spring and early May approach, most people can find relief, but it can be difficult when it's the middle of winter. Do your best to beat the winter blues by socializing and managing personal health.
Yes! Some older adults may develop summer SAD if they're sensitive to heat and disrupted routines. Warmer weather can increase anxiety, making coping strategies essential, regardless of the season.
Although Washington's weather isn't always sunny, the winters tend to be mild. Depending on the person, seasonal affective disorder can last up to half a year. With a strong support system and coping strategies, you can reduce this time.
Card games and BINGO can be a great way to step away from negative feelings without leaving home. At Liberty Place's game room and other common areas, you can put your gaming skills to the test. Reading, baking, and hobbies are other ways to overcome winter blues.
To truly beat the winter blues, you must enter the season with a strategy. Recognizing the signs of sadness and possessing coping strategies will be your best defense as an older adult.
Living somewhere that supports emotional wellness can ensure a longer and happier life. Liberty Place has been recognized as a Best Assisted Living community for 2025. With our assisted living and memory care programs, you can make the most of your golden years.
To discover if our community could be your next home, contact us today. Call our team at (360) 339-4531 or complete our online form!