Winter Blues Got You Down? Four Mood-Boosting Tips for Seniors

By Emily Havens, Director of Sales and Marketing, Ovation Sienna Hills

Whether it’s due to a health problem, the loss of a loved one, or the time of year, many older adults experience mental health issues. Although they are common to have in later adulthood, feelings of depression and anxiety do not have to be a normal part of aging.

The wellness team at Ovation Sienna Hills— comprised of registered nurses, licensed nurses, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals—compiled the following tips that seniors can utilize this holiday season to improve their mental and emotional well-being.

1. Physical Activity Physical activity has a variety of benefits for both the mind and body. When a person exercises, even moderately, it causes the brain to release endorphins. This feel-good hormone, combined with the release of tension from muscles, promotes feelings of calm and well-being. If you’re feeling down, try a new yoga routine or go for a walk outside for an improved mood.

2. Engage the Mind Maintaining memory and brain function and combating depression require small, everyday actions to keep the mind occupied and alert. Doing puzzles, reading, and writing are some enjoyable activities that engage the mind. Having a purpose in life and attainable ambitions increase self-esteem and mental health. Volunteering and participating in group activities are excellent methods of challenging the mind and fostering social contact.

3. A Balanced Diet Some nutrients can help elevate your mood. Omega-3 fatty acids (found in cold-water fish, dark leafy green vegetables, walnuts, kidney beans, and flax seed), zinc (found in cashews, pumpkin seeds, yogurt, spinach, chicken, and mushrooms), and B vitamins (found in a variety of foods such as whole grains, eggs, potatoes, avocado, bananas, beans, beef, chicken, fish, and pork) aid in lifting depressive feelings. Additionally, avoiding heavy meals with starchy carbohydrates can be helpful.

4. Connect with Family and Friends Since humans are, by nature, social beings, isolation and loneliness have a negative effect on our moods. It is important to maintain a healthy social life in later adulthood by spending time with people who have similar interests and who are at the same stage of life as you are.

Many folks choose to move into a senior living community, such as Ovation Sienna Hills, because it ensures that its residents experience the four tips listed above. At Ovation, our wellness program is complete with full-time, on-site exercise physiologists and a physical therapist. Residents participate in engaging activities and are always encouraged to try something new. With multiple restaurants on site and an executive chef who is passionate about healthy and mindful eating, a balanced diet is paramount at Ovation. And last but certainly not least, Ovation’s activities programs offer life-enriching opportunities that encompass many affinity groups: hiking club, art classes, educational lectures, scenic drives, fishing trips, and so much more.

If you would like to talk with a representative from Ovation Sienna Hills about enhancing your life, please call (435) 429-0000, go to their website at www.ovationsiennahills.com, or visit their community on the corner of Washington Parkway and Telegraph Street at 1525 E. Ovation Place in Washington, Utah 84780.

About the Author

Emily Havens

Emily Havens is the Executive Community Relations Director for Ovation Sienna Hills. Prior to developing her marketing career, Emily spent three years at The Spectrum and Daily News as a local journalist. Emily has garnered several awards from the Associated Press, Utah Press Association, and Nevada Press Association. In addition to her contributions to journalism and the digital marketing world, Emily is also a local nonprofit chapter president.