Holiday Depression | Video

Sarahbeth Ackerman | 11/14/2012

The holiday season is supposed to be a festive time of year, full of cheer and good will, right? So why are so many people suffering from depression during the holidays?

The sounds of the holidays are approaching and although this could be a festive time for some, it could also trigger troubled thoughts, especially as we age.

"It`s normal for older adults to feel a sense of loss during the holiday time, they may have lost their loved ones, friends may have passed away, traditions may have changed, not able to do the same things that they used to so I think that`s a pretty normal feeling," said Edgewood Vista Social Worker Manager Brenda Vogel.

Many who experience symptoms of depression could have a shift in lifestyle or just feel unhappy with their every day routine. And although all ages can be affected by this, Voegal says it`s most common for senior citizens to suffer during the holidays.

"I think a lot of times what we see is that maybe their day to day living is not what it used to be, they`re not getting up. Getting dressed, their appetite is poor, they are losing weight, they lost that sense of purpose," said Voegal.

Although depression is common during the holidays, the assisted living community are helping their residents cope with the pain during these tough times.

"Giving them a sense of purpose. One of the things we, our, resident counsel decided to do is to sponsor a couple of families in the community that are needy and we are going to do a few fundraisers to raise some money so they can go out and buy these gifts for the families. Things that they need. And we`ll wrap them up and give them, that whole sense of feeling needed," said Voegal.

Although memories of family gatherings and happier times can set off these sad symptoms, the assisted living community is hoping to make new traditions.

The assisted living community is helping their residents cope with the pain by planning several holiday events for residents to participate in.

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