The gray winter mornings in Tipton, Iowa, can really bring down your mood, especially for those with seasonal affective disorder. Compared to summer, December daylight here is shorter and often cloudier, which can make anyone feel sluggish. The change in seasons can make older people in Tipton feel what many people call "the winter blues": a lack of energy, motivation, and a positive mood.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, many people experience the "winter blues" as days shorten, while seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression with a recurrent seasonal pattern that can last 4-5 months.
Thankfully, there are easy and effective ways to boost your moodand get things back in balance, offering mood support for aging adults. During the winter, seniors can stay healthy and happy by getting enough vitamin D, light therapy, routines, and social interaction.
The winter blues are not a clinical diagnosis, but it is something most people in Tipton recognize. Many older people feel less energetic and happy as the days get shorter and colder. These symptoms of what people consider winter blues usually include:
Winter blues tend to start in late fall and peak in midwinter. Even though it might initially feel minor, it can still disrupt daily activities.
Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is sometimes confused with winter blues. Professionals in mental health recognize SAD as a type of depression, and it is included in the DSM-5.
Here is how SAD differs from general winter blues:
Winter blues may not be as intense as SAD, but that does not mean it should be ignored. Left unaddressed, it can worsen over time.
Vitamin D helps regulate mood and supports brain health, highlighting senior vitamin D benefits. During Tipton's winter months, seniors get less sunlight, which may lead to lower vitamin D levels, which can worsen seasonal affective disorder symptoms.
For best results, it is smart to combine vitamin D with other supports like light exposure, healthy food, and daily exercise.
Each person has different vitamin D needs, so it is recommended to consult a doctor before starting supplements. A test can show if vitamin D levels are low.
According to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, adults over 70 need 800 IU of vitamin D daily, and the tolerable upper limit for adults is 4,000 IU per day.
Vitamin D is one helpful tool, but the biggest impact comes from a consistent, protective routine. Remember, excessive vitamin D intake can lead to health issues, so avoid taking mega-doses without consulting a doctor.
Bright light therapy has the potential to improve mood and reset the body's circadian rhythm. It is especially useful when sunlight is scarce during winter and offers simple light therapy ideas for daily use.
According to Mayo Clinic, light boxes for SAD are typically 10,000 lux, used for about 20-30 minutes in the morning.
If you take any medications that affect light sensitivity or have an eye condition, always consult your doctor before beginning light therapy.
Having a regular schedule with small but important habits can help you get over the blues. Here is what seniors in Tipton can do with practical winter wellness tips:
Sticking to a predictable and consistent plan can help you sleep better and get your energy back.
Feeling low for a day or two is normal, but when winter blues hang around, it may be time to check in with a professional.
Quick action can help seniors feel better more quickly and stop symptoms from getting worse.
In the right dose, yes. Many seniors lack vitamin D, especially during the winter, which is important for bone health and mood. It is important to get tested first and only take supplements under the care of a doctor.
Ideally, you will want to begin your routines in early fall, before symptoms start. This way, when the worst days come, protective routines are already established.
Early preparation makes the biggest difference.
The short, cold days of winter are tough on everyone, but especially for older adults, including those with seasonal affective disorder. The good news is that seniors in Tipton can remain engaged, active, and upbeat throughout the season with a little preparation.
With daily structure and a supportive community, winter blues recede and motivation returns.
Prairie Hills at Tipton builds strong bonds that steady winter. Chef-prepared meals that make you feel at home make mealtime a routine conversation starter. Days have meaning thanks to creative, social, and fun activities and memory care wellness.
Want to learn how our community supports winter wellness? Reach out today to schedule a visit and explore how our care teams help seniors thrive year-round.