5 tips to overcome the winter blues for seniors
Winter can be challenging for older people - as it gets colder it can be appealing to stay inside and become less social. But it’s important to remember that withdrawing from your social life can lead to serious mental and physical health issues.
It’s important to stay socially connected during the winter months.
Studies show that loneliness can lead to health risks. These include anxiety, depression and other long term health conditions.
In this article, we will discuss some practical tips for seniors to stay connected during the winter months.
Reach out to your family and friends or neighbours
In the ever-changing online world it has become easier to connect with others from the comfort of your own home.
This can include virtual gatherings through platforms like Zoom, phone calls and social media.
Make sure to hold yourself accountable. Set aside time each week to connect with others, either in person, on the phone or online.
Spend time in your community
Joining a local club or attending a social activity can help you meet new people.
You can also enjoy your hobbies or learn a new skill.
Having a regular group to meet up with helps with motivation to get out and about, as well as giving you something to look forward to.
Southern Cross Care offers a range of services that promote social connection:
- Community art classes: Our ICreate classes are weekly gatherings for anyone who enjoys being creative. They are open to people of all artistic abilities and explore a variety of media. Click here for more information.
- Exercise classes: Our exercise group classes are held in our Health & Fitness Centres located in South Australia and Darwin. There are a variety of classes available such as pilates, Stronger Today, Tai Chi and aqua fitness. Click here to view the timetables.
Stay active
During the summer, staying motivated to exercise often feels easier but motivation can reduce in winter.
However, there are many benefits of exercise for adults aged 65 or over, such as improved quality of life, physical and mental health.
Just 30 minutes of moderate physical exercise every day can provide these amazing benefits.
Outdoor activities like walking or bike riding are still achievable in winter.
Before heading out, check the weather forecast, wear appropriate gear such as gloves and warm up with some light stretching.
If the cold weather makes outdoor activity difficult for you, try exercising indoors.
Some indoor activities include yoga, Tai Chi or low impact exercises such as arm circles and sit to stands.
Southern Cross Care offers a range of free online exercise videos and resources, so you can get started today. Click here to access them.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a wonderful way to build connections in your community, create memories and bring happiness to others.
Research has shown that volunteering can benefit volunteers by improving their quality of life and reducing symptoms of depression.
At Southern Cross Care we offer volunteer roles across a range of areas, including:
- Care Car drivers - Our Care Car service helps people to attend medical appointments and get out and about in their local community.
- Special interest and organisation support - This may include one-on-one visits with residents, bringing your dog to one of our Residential Care homes or conversing with a resident in their native language, such as Greek.
- Leisure and lifestyle - Participate in group activities like bingo, trivia, gardening and craft groups.
Click here to view our volunteering page and find a role that suits you.
Reach out for assistance
Feeling lonely or not quite yourself can be challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone.
You can reach out to your local GP or a mental health professional for support and guidance.
There are also free and confidential 24/7 support services available such as Beyond Blue Australia.
For more information about any of these services mentioned above, contact our friendly team on 1800 852 772.
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