Tips & Activities to Overcoming the Winter Blues

As our Pennsylvania winters kick into full gear, the colder weather and shorter days of sunlight can leave us feeling tired and uninspired to complete even our normal daily activities. Seasonal depression, the winter blues, whatever you want to call it, affects many of us, especially senior citizens who cannot get out as much as they like. Here are some tips to beat the winter blues: Reminisce. When possible, have family and friends over for a visit. Bring out photo albums, family videos, or sentimental items to share fun stories and bring back positive memories. If its not possible to have visitors, set up a FaceTime or Skype with family members so that you can share the memories and have some laughs together. Stay physical. Exercise is great for improving your overall mood, boosting your metabolism, and relieving stress. Take advantage of our indoor heated pool and fitness center. Join a group exercise program and, when the weather permits, enjoy a stroll among nature on the many walking trails that surround our community. Sunshine and fresh air can sometimes be the best medicine for feelings of depression and loneliness. Remain engaged. Its all too easy to become withdrawn, even in an open community such as Ashbridge Manor. Stay busy with our fun activities, join a friend in our community room for a puzzle to keep your mind active, find a book in our library, help others be engaged. Enjoy healthy meals. The foods we eat can have a direct effect on our energy and mood. And when its stormy and the sun isnt shining, we can find it all too easy to stay in and eat processed foods and simple carbs. When you arent joining us for our continental breakfast or dinner, make sure to get simple things to cook yourself. Invite a friend over to help you cook and enjoy some much-needed camaraderie and conversation. Know the signs of depression Whether youre a senior citizen or a concerned family member, you need to be aware that many older adults from depression.

• Trouble sleeping or concentrating
• Extreme feeling of sadness or loneliness
• Withdrawal from family or community activities
• Excessive weight gain or loss
• Persistent unease or fidgeting
• Thoughts those loved ones are better off without you

A healthy senior living lifestyle is an important part of helping seniors stay positive, and atAshbridge Manor Senior Living, we pride ourselves on creating a lifestyle of wellness, fun daily activities, and a welcoming, friendly community. When its time to transition to a senior living facility, contact our professional staff members and we can help make it easy. You can find us at971 E. Lancaster Avenue in Downingtown, PA, call610.269.8800, orcontact us onlinefor more information. Ask us about our move-in special! Ashbridge Manor is a safe, COVID-free senior living community.