Health and Wellness

How can seniors beat the winter blues?

Tips to help seniors overcome winter blues as inspired by ideas Amica puts into action at its residences

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It’s common to feel isolated and sluggish during the winter. That's why we have fun activities and events to warm up winter at Amica. Below are our favourite tips to brighten the day. 

Brighten up your space

Some people suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which can affect their mood during the fall and winter months. Research shows those who experience SAD symptoms — such as hopelessness, irritability, tiredness, and oversleeping — can benefit from sitting beside an artificial light box (phototherapy) as well as opening curtains and sitting close to windows to get a daily dose of sunshine.

Get moving

Studies suggest a brisk walk can help improve your mood. Find out if your local shopping centre has a mall-walking club, which is popular with many of our residents (others get their mileage walking the halls inside Amica residences).

Try going outside

Take inspiration from our residents, as some are devoted year-round walkers. In winter, they wear boots with treads and stroll neighbourhoods around our residences. Research shows spending time outside improves focus, reduces stress, and increases a sense of social connection.

Bundle up

Did you know feeling cold can impact your mood? Research has shown staying warm can reduce symptoms of the winter blues. Keep warm with hot drinks, cozy clothes inside, and layers outside.

Listen to music

Listening to cheerful tunes can give you a great winter mood boost. No wonder musical events are such a hit at our residences where we often offer winter entertainment such as live jazz and hot chocolate, a local band performing at a winter festival, a pianist playing at a dinner gala, or a fireside singalong of old standards.

Plan a vacation or a staycation

Experts have found the act of planning a vacation boosts feelings of happiness. If you can’t fly to the sunshine this year, organize outings close to home. At Amica, we brighten up winter for our residents by organizing events and activities that offer a similar escape from routine as a trip. Imagine: winter barbecues with music and a summer menu with island-inspired decorations, food, and drinks.

Take up a hobby

If you give yourself a new interest to anticipate and concentrate on, you’ll keep your mind active. It might be playing cards, learning to dance, doing crafts, journaling, or writing a blog. Ideally, you’ll enjoy your new activity alongside friends and family, since socializing is a great way to keep the blues at bay, and boost your mental health.

Surround yourself with amenities and activities, flexible dining, and personalized support at Amica residences. Book your personal visit today.