Seasonal Affective Disorder in Senior Citizens

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that is related to the changes in seasons, typically occurring in the fall and winter months. It is estimated that SAD affects about 1-2% of the general population, and this number may be even higher in older adults.

Seasonal Affective Disorder in Oregon

It is more common in regions that have less daylight and more clouds during the fall and winter months. The state of Oregon, especially the northern and coastal regions, are known to have a lot of cloud cover and less sunlight during the fall and winter months, which can contribute to higher rates of SAD. According to some studies, the prevalence of SAD in Oregon is higher than the national average.

Seasonal Affective Disorder Can Be Worse For Hospice Patients

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) can be a significant concern for hospice patients, as it can exacerbate symptoms of depression and anxiety that are already present in individuals nearing the end of their lives. Hospice patients may be particularly vulnerable to SAD due to the physical and emotional changes that they are experiencing, such as decreased mobility, isolation, and loss of health.

Symptoms of SAD in hospice patients can be difficult to distinguish from symptoms of their underlying illness or condition, which may make it harder to diagnose and treat. Hospice patients may be more likely to experience fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns, which can also be symptoms of SAD.

Diagnosing SAD

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is typically diagnosed by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. The diagnosis of SAD is based on a combination of the patient's symptoms, medical history, and the time of year.

To diagnose SAD, a mental health professional will usually conduct a thorough psychological evaluation, which may include a clinical interview, a physical examination, and laboratory tests to rule out other medical conditions.

Treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder

Treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in older adults may include a combination of different therapies, such as:

1. Light therapy: This involves exposure to a special light box that emits bright light, mimicking natural sunlight. Light therapy is thought to help regulate the body's circadian rhythm and improve mood.

2. Antidepressant medication: Antidepressant medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms of depression.

3. Psychotherapy: This may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or talk therapy. This type of therapy can help individuals learn coping mechanisms for dealing with SAD, and can also help address underlying psychological issues that may be contributing to SAD symptoms.

4. Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule: SAD can disrupt sleep patterns, and getting enough sleep is crucial for mental health. This can be tricky for many hospice patients, who find that their sleep schedule may shift dramatically.

5. Maintaining social connections: Staying socially connected can help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common symptoms of SAD. Our care team, including our spiritual care coordinator and our end-of-life doula can also help provide a listening ear and access to helpful resources.

If you or a loved one is suffering from symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder and you are a patient of Coastal Home Health & Hospice, feel free to speak with your doctor, nurse, or other members of your care team. Our spiritual care coordinator and our end-of-life doula can also help provide a listening ear and access to helpful community resources. This article with 79 resources for managing Seasonal Affective Disorder may also be helpful.