The holidays are the perfect time to get together with family and friends to celebrate the season and festivities. However, holidays can sometimes cause undue stress and mild depression, particularly for seniors. Older adults may realize how quickly time has passed; they may have money or health concerns that hinder their enjoyment, or they may miss loved ones who can't be around during the holidays.
Below are some tips to help you cope as a senior during the holiday season so you can continue to enjoy this special time of year.
Tips For Dealing With Holiday Stress
Count Your Blessings
Feel appreciative for what you have, and if you are unable to keep up with certain traditions, make new ones. Maybe this year you can go visit your family for the holidays instead of having to run the show yourself. Perhaps having all your friends over is too much stress on you. Instead, maybe you can simply invite your close family over to share the holidays. No matter what you do, however, it's important that you are thankful for what you have.
Give Yourself A Break
When the holidays come around, some people begin dwelling on their mistakes or imperfections. The holidays are not always easy. Give yourself a break and be gentle on yourself. Remember, you have lived your years of stress and worry. Now it's your time to sit back and enjoy life by having a positive outlook and enjoying stress-free living in an independent living community.
Drink Responsibly
Holidays tend to make people overindulge, but if you drink excessively during this time, it could leave you feeling less than merry. You can enjoy a drink or two here or there if your doctor allows it, but don't overdo it.
Use Your Support System
Sometimes all it takes is being around your close network of family and friends to turn those blues around, especially during the holidays. During these times, getting together with your support system is important and can help keep yourself centered, even if it's only by phone.
Get Out And About
During the winter months, there’s less daylight and that can lead to seasonal blues disorder. Be sure to get out during the day, maintain your exercise routine, and take in some light and sun.
Overall, try not to put undue stress on yourself. The holidays are times that many people begin feeling depressed or anxious. Perhaps a little rest and relaxation in your independent living community with all its amenities can help.
