Are you suffering from a case of the post-holiday caregiver blues? These 6 tips can help you beat the blues.
It’s that time of year again. The holidays are behind us and the long winter is in front of us. Warm, sunny days can seem far away. For caregivers who may be stuck indoors a lot during colder months, it’s easy to find yourself feeling a little blue.
Experts say 15% of people struggle to stay positive during the winter months. Some even experience a more serious case of seasonal affective disorder, also known as SAD.
If you are a family caregiver who is feeling a little down, this list of post-holiday caregiver blues busters may help boost your mood and lift your spirits.
6 Blues Busters for Caregivers
1. Get out: While it might be tempting to hibernate until spring, sunshine, combined with fresh air, can be good for the soul. Bundle up, put on skid-proof boots, and head out for a quick trip around the block.
2. Nutrient-rich foods: Many of us turn to carb-heavy comfort foods during the winter, especially if we are feeling a little blue. But they can leave you feeling a little sluggish. A better choice is to fill your plate with nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, fish, and lean protein. They’ll help you feel more energetic and less lethargic.
3. Limit alcohol consumption: If you are trying to boost your mood by indulging in a cocktail or glass of wine each day, know that the “booze blues” might be making the problem worse. Alcohol is a depressant when consumed in any quantity. Opt for water, tea, or juice instead.
4. Good night’s sleep: A case of the blues can lead to sleep problems. For some caregivers it might be sleeping too much, while others don’t sleep enough. Try a few natural remedies for getting a good night’s rest. If they don’t help, you might need to schedule an appointment with your physician. They will likely have other ideas for you to try.
5. Exercise: While this might not be your favorite way to spend your time, exercise is a great way to beat the blues. When you exercise, endorphins – natural mood boosters – are released in the body. Just thirty minutes of daily exercise can help improve your emotional and physical well-being.
6. Stay connected: Try to stay in touch with friends and loved ones even if the weather outside is frightful. If you aren’t able to get together in person, there are other ways to stay connected like phone calls, Skype, and Facebook.
Caregiving at Legacy Senior Living
If you are starting to explore senior living options for an older adult you love, it’s important to ask the right questions. Many of those questions relate to the experience and quality of a community’s caregivers.
We encourage you to use this list to better understand what questions to ask during your visit Legacy Senior Living and at any other community you are considering.