Seasonal Affective Disorder Physical Exercise Benefits for Seniors

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can have detrimental effects on senior mental health, but luckily, regular exercise can help. Through activities like walking, yoga, and strength training, you can ease depression symptoms during the darker months.

According to Physiopedia, millions of people are affected by SAD. This condition can last 4-5 months, which can make half the year intolerable, and as a result, your quality of life can take a nosedive.

While it won't eliminate all symptoms, seasonal affective disorder physical exercise can certainly decrease them significantly. And it can be extremely beneficial for seniors in Gallatin, TN, especially if they already don't get enough physical activity in their daily lives.

Here's what older adults need to know about exercise and its benefits for SAD.

How Does Seasonal Affective Disorder Affect Seniors?

Typical SAD symptoms include:

• Persistent fatigue
• Changes in appetite
• Disrupted sleep
• A decline in motivation

These things can already be tough enough to deal with for the average adult, but for seniors, it can be devastating. This can mean:

• Difficulty staying socially engaged
• Lower independence
• Higher risk of isolation

Not only can these factors cause an older adult's mental health to plummet, but they can also cause a decline in physical health. So it's vital to counteract symptoms with effective strategies, such as exercise.

What Are the Psychological Benefits of Exercise for Elderly People?

Obviously, physical activity has benefits for the body, but it can also improve emotional health for seniors. This is why exercise is considered a protective factor for older adults.

What's incredible is that it acts as a natural antidepressant since exercise can boost levels of serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins. This results in the following key psychological benefits:

• Elevated mood
• Improved cognitive function
• Reduced anxiety and depression
• Better sleep quality

These advantages are invaluable since a boost in mental health directly supports independence and social well-being.

Physical Benefits of Exercise for Seniors With SAD

Winter wellness strategies almost always include exercise, and for good reason. You gain tangible physical improvements, and they can combat SAD symptoms, especially lethargy.

Here are the physical benefits of exercise for seniors with SAD:

• Increased energy
• Stronger muscles and bones
• Improved immunity
• Enhanced balance and flexibility

With these physical gains, you'll build resilience, and it'll be easier to cope with seasonal challenges.

What Exercise Is Good for Seasonal Affective Disorder?

The optimal exercise for assisted living fitness and memory care engagement will be different for each person. The key is to find routines that are safe, adaptable, and enjoyable.

With that said, there are still good exercise recommendations for reducing SAD. They include:

• Walking outdoors
• Tai chi or yoga
• Strength training
• Group classes
• Low-impact aerobic activities

The main thing is to be consistent. Even if you can only do 20-30 minutes of activity, three to five times per week, you'll see a significant difference in your mood and energy levels.

How to Create a Routine to Stay Mentally and Physically Active

If you need a little seasonal mood support, that's understandable. After all, the colder and darker days can make it hard to get off the couch, and if you don't keep up with exercise, you'll feel worse.

The key is to have a routine that's both structured and flexible. Here's a general guide:

• Set a schedule (ideally, exercise in the morning to maximize daylight exposure)
• Mix indoor and outdoor activities (prioritize outdoor ones on sunny days)
• Use light exposure
• Add a social element to get accountability and combat loneliness
• Track your progress to stay motivated and recognize improvements

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Vitamin D Help With Seasonal Depression?

Yes, vitamin D can help with seasonal depression since it plays a role in mood regulation. It's already one of the essential nutrients for senior health, and getting extra in the winter can help with SAD since seniors tend to get less sun exposure, and therefore, less vitamin D absorption.

You can get vitamin D by eating certain foods or by taking supplements.

What Is the Best Cure for Seasonal Affective Disorder?

There's no one-size-fits-all "cure," but effective solutions include:

• Exercise
• Light therapy
• Consistent routines
• Vitamin D supplementation
• Professional counseling

Many older adults find that a combination approach gets the best results.

What Is the Best Exercise for Anxiety?

The best exercise for anxiety is gentle aerobic activities, like:

• Walking
• Swimming
• Yoga

These exercises help lower stress hormones while regulating breathing and promoting relaxation.

Can SAD Go Away on Its Own?

In many cases, SAD can go away on its own when daylight increases in the spring and summer. However, symptoms can become more severe or recur each year if you're not proactive and use management strategies, like exercise.

Is SAD More Common in Seniors?

SAD affects people of all ages, but older adults can be more vulnerable. This is due to factors like:

• Reduced mobility
• Less outdoor time
• Health conditions that impact mood and energy

How Long Does It Take for Exercise to Improve Mood?

You may see noticeable improvements after just a few sessions, thanks to the release of endorphins! In fact, a study by Noetel et. al published in The BMJ shows that exercise is an effective treatment for depression. However, if you want to get the most lasting benefits, you need to keep up with consistent exercise over several weeks.

Consider Seasonal Affective Disorder Physical Exercise This Winter

If you're a senior who feels extremely down and lethargic during colder months, then you're likely affected by SAD. The good news is that you don't have to just live with the symptoms; there are many methods to fight them.

Seasonal affective disorder physical exercise is a particularly effective strategy, so look into it. While it can be challenging to get started, once you do, you'll never look back. With your newfound energy and boosted moods, you'll also be able to do more during the winter!

At The Capstone at Station Camp, we provide our residents with weekly housekeeping and laundry services so they can kick back and relax in their golden years. If you'd like to hear more about senior living in Gallatin, TN, then contact us now.