Beat the Winter Blues
February 19, 2025
The National Institute on Aging reports that up to 20% of older adults struggle with seasonal depression or winter-related mood changes. Winter can be a difficult season with shorter days and cold weather causing feelings of sadness, loneliness, or fatigue.
Do you care for an aging loved one? If you have noticed their lack of interest in activities, lower energy, and they seem withdrawn, they may need extra help. Seniors have a higher risk of depression and anxiety, but their mental health often goes unchecked.
Caregivers and seniors can find the support they need with Trinity Health PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) programs. Social interaction and mental stimulation can combat loneliness and ease the effects of seasonal depression. We help seniors stay active and connected, offering activities like pet therapy, dance classes, Bingo, and trivia.
Recreation Coordinator Veronica Guidry often notices a shift with participants’ mental health after they participate in activities at the center. Veronica works at our Louisiana program, Trinity Health PACE Alexandria, and she sees how things like arts and crafts, gardening, or dancing make a difference with the seniors.
“Some say that at first they never wanted to leave the house, but now they are ready to get up, start their day at the center, and do activities,” Veronica said.
The seniors aren’t the only ones benefitting from the fun, as Veronica loves planning and leading engaging experiences at the PACE center:
“It is a blessing to work with participants and see their mental health improve. It makes me smile to see them happy, and little do they know, they help me just as much as I try to help them! I have received so much wisdom from them, and I love being part of their day.”
Mental health is a big puzzle piece of overall wellbeing. When seniors join a PACE program, they receive care for both their mental and physical health, as our team treats the whole person. Our program offers a team of experts ranging from registered nurses, to physical therapists, to dietitians and more.
Learn more about our comprehensive services here.
Discover more ways to stay safe and healthy this season here.