If you struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD), physical exercise can help. Moving your body can boost your mood, improve sleep, and help you regain energy.
Approximately 5% of American adults experience seasonal affective disorder every year, as reported by the American Psychiatric Association. For seniors, the impact can be more profound because colder weather limits mobility and access to sunlight.
New Castle, Indiana, offers small-town safety with easy access to city resources in Indianapolis. Winters here are long and chilly, which makes seasonal affective disorder physical exercise critical.
If you notice that you feel down every winter, you may wonder if it's SAD. Healthcare providers use several steps to diagnose the condition. For instance, they may ask medical questions about your mood and energy levels. They will also observe seasonal patterns.
If the sadness happens for two or more years during colder months, you most likely have SAD. Your doctor will also order tests to rule out other problems like vitamin D deficiency and thyroid issues.
When in an assisted living community in New Castle, Indiana, the care team can help you watch out for signs of SAD. They'll also connect you to safe winter mood support programs that support overall health.
Not all exercise is equally effective for seniors. Some wellness activities may feel too hard or put you at risk of injury. The best choices are gentle, fun, and easy to keep up with during the winter.
At Addison Place, we offer exercise programs built for all ability levels. Some safe and effective options for you include:
Pairing light exposure with movement, like exercising near a window, doubles the benefits. It brightens your mood while helping your body produce the hormones needed to regulate sleep and mood.
Staying active indoors enhances your wellness while in a senior living community. Even small steps like stretching or walking indoors can protect your emotional wellness during the colder months.
Addison Place has safe and welcoming spaces designed with seniors' safety in mind. You can take a stroll in the warm indoor areas or join gentle group exercise classes. You may also participate in stretching routines to improve flexibility.
While indoor activities enhance your physical health, they also improve your mood in many ways. For example, they give you an active senior social life. You'll feel close to other residents and look forward to interactions. Other indoor activity benefits include:
Exercising indoors is also a great way to boost your confidence and independence. You'll know you're taking the proper steps to care for your health.
Once you incorporate indoor exercise into your routine, you'll experience improved moods and a sense of belonging. These feelings make winter feel lighter, even on the darkest days.
One of the most challenging effects of seasonal depression is poor sleep. Dark winter days confuse your body's natural clock, making it harder to fall asleep at night. As a result, you may feel tired during the day. When your sleep is off, it can also affect your mood and your ability to enjoy daily activities.
Regular movement helps reset your body's rhythm. Gentle exercise will signal to your body when it's time to be active and when it's time to rest. The balance helps you fall asleep more easily and wake up feeling more refreshed.
Addison Place assisted living in New Castle understands the importance of rest to your overall health. We have calming routines that you can incorporate into your daily schedule.
You might join a light exercise class in the morning to energize yourself. In the evening, do gentle stretches to relax your muscles and prepare your body for sleep. When you pair movement with good rest, you can keep your spirit up all winter long.
SAD symptoms may ease once spring arrives and the days get longer. The extra sunlight may improve your mood and energy. Still, waiting for the season to change is not always the best choice. If you don't take action, seasonal depression can affect your memory and quality of life.
Instead of trying to push through, be proactive. Join a physical exercise program and enjoy light therapy. You should also maintain social connections to protect your long-term health.
Yes, with proper care and guidance. Many seniors have conditions that may affect their ability to exercise, such as:
If you're dealing with any of these issues, you can stay active and safe by adjusting exercises to your ability. At Addison Place, we have trained staff who guide you through activities and ensure everything meets your needs. We help you enjoy the benefits of movement without unnecessary risk.
Yes. Outdoor activities allow you to enjoy the fresh air and sunlight. However, winter weather in Indiana can make it hard to spend time outside safely. Snow, ice, and freezing winds may keep you indoors, contributing to seasonal depression.
Addison Place features bright, well-lit spaces that provide ample room for you to stay active, regardless of the weather outside. You can walk comfortably in warm indoor areas or join exercise classes that fit your pace. Additionally, you won't have to worry about slipping on ice or braving the cold winds.
Engaging in seasonal affective disorder physical exercise helps you feel stronger and sleep better. Regain your joy during colder months by trying simple activities like walking indoors and chair yoga. Enhance your sleep patterns by regulating your body's natural clock through light exposure and movement.
Addison Place offers a safe and supportive community for seniors in New Castle. Enjoy exclusive wellness programs alongside a social and recreation program in our pet-friendly community. Contact us to discover holistic support in New Castle and thrive throughout the seasons.