Shorter, darker days cause the winter blues, a seasonal dip in mood; SAD is the diagnosable form, with longer, recurrent episodes that interfere with day-to-day functioning. Winter blues typically fade as daylight increases, while SAD persists for weeks and follows a yearly pattern. Changes to your lifestyle and, when symptoms last a long time or are severe, care guided by a clinician can help with both.
For most seniors here in Sheboygan, WI, the gloomy melancholy that creeps in as the leaves turn brown is quite familiar. While the feeling passes for most people, the winter blues can have a serious impact on senior emotional wellness.
Thankfully, with the right seasonal mood support and winter routine ideas, seniors can beat the winter blues and enjoy their retirement during the winter.
Read on to learn more about beating the winter blues.
Winter blues are a seasonal low mood tied to shorter, darker days.
Remember: "Winter blues" is an informal label, not a diagnosis. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, seasonal affective disorder is a type of depression with a recurrent seasonal pattern that often begins in late fall or early winter.
If symptoms last for weeks or disrupt daily life, seek evaluation for SAD using formal criteria.
Morning light soon after waking helps reset circadian timing and improve alertness. Use a 10,000-lux lamp positioned slightly off to the side at arm's length for a consistent daily session.
Consistent walking supports mood, circulation, and joint health for older adults in Sheboygan. Here's how seniors can start regular walks:
Structured meals prevent energy crashes and support consistent focus. Seniors should aim for the following nutrition goals:
A predictable schedule helps to stabilize sleep quality through the winter. Control light, temperature, and keep body clocks aligned.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is an official medical term that encompasses a more severe form of the winter blues.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, SAD is classified in DSM-5-TR as major depressive disorder with seasonal pattern and affects about 5% of adults, typically lasting around 40% of the year.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, a person's SAD symptoms often start in late fall or early winter and can make daily life difficult; treatment options include light therapy, psychotherapy, and antidepressant medication.
But remember, you can usually beat the winter blues with lifestyle and routine changes.
Winter blues often begin in late fall and last until early spring when daylight increases again. For many, symptoms peak in January and February.
Typically, the blues last a few weeks to a couple of months and improve naturally as daylight returns. Seniors who maintain steady routines can shorten episodes:
If symptoms persist beyond winter or interfere with daily life, it may signal seasonal affective disorder that needs medical evaluation.
Yes, low vitamin B12 is linked to depression. B12 supports brain health and neurotransmitter production. Low levels may cause symptoms such as:
Older adults absorb less B12 from food. A blood test confirms a deficiency. Treatment options include:
Correcting B12 helps mood and energy and should complement broader winter wellness routines.
According to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, the tolerable upper intake level for adults is 4,000 IU (100 mcg) per day; routine intakes above this, such as 5,000 IU daily, should be supervised by a clinician.
Potential benefits include:
But, there are risks with long-term unsupervised use, such as:
Your doctor can help you use blood testing to guide correct dosing. Consult a clinician before starting high-dose vitamin D.
The shorter days can make us feel down, but the winter blues don't have to take over. Staying active and implementing more light, consistent routines are two smart changes that can help local seniors beat the winter blues.
By offering exciting ways of staying active inside, such as fitness classes, exciting clubs, and cozy indoor gatherings that combat cabin fever, LakeHouse Sheboygan keeps people's spirits up and helps them achieve optimal mental and physical health.
Come see for yourself by scheduling a tour today and discover how we make winter cozy and comfortable. We're proud to offer military veterans a significant discount on the monthly rent.