As we head into the winter season, it’s important to remember that for many the colder, darker months can have a negative impact on wellbeing. The winter blues, also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), can affect anyone including those in care. To combat the blues and promote a happier and healthier atmosphere, here are five recommendations for this winter.
1. Physical Activity
Physical activity is essential for mental and emotional wellbeing, and it can be especially helpful during the winter months. Encouraging care residents to stay active can make a significant difference, regular exercise can boost serotonin, endorphins, and other feel-good chemicals.
Organise group exercise sessions or facilitate one-on-one activities such as chair yoga or indoor walking. Physical activity not only helps improve mood but also enhances overall health, mobility, and social interaction.
2. Communication and Connection
Isolation can intensify feelings of sadness and loneliness during the winter. Residents who are separated from family and friends might feel even more alone during this time. Caregivers and staff should promote regular social interaction through video calls, letter writing, and engaging residents in conversation and group activities to foster a sense of connection.
There are also services carers can utilise to support residents. Across England, volunteers are making friendly and encouraging Check In and Chat phone calls to those in need of a chat through the NHS and Care Volunteer Responders programme. It’s free and easy to make a referral, carers can request support by visiting nhscarevolunteerresponders.org or calling 0808 196 3382
3. Healthy Eating
Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing mood and overall wellbeing.
When planning meals ensure they are well-balanced and nutrient dense. Offering seasonal fruits and vegetables, warm soups, and comforting dishes can make mealtimes a source of joy. Residents should be encouraged to stay hydrated, even mild dehydration can affect one’s mood, energy level and ability to concentrate.
4. Brighten a Space
In winter, the lack of natural sunlight can contribute to feelings of depression and lethargy. Sadly, when the sun does shine in winter, it’s often too cold to go outside and soak it up. But there are ways to counteract this and brighten up living spaces.
To create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, it’s important to ensure that common areas and resident rooms have enough lighting. Adding cheerful and colourful decorations like artwork and plants in communal spaces can also boost residents’ moods and create a more friendly environment.
5. Stick to a Routine
Consistency and structure are key to maintaining wellbeing, especially during the winter months. By establishing and adhering to a daily routine, residents can feel more in control and less overwhelmed by the winter blues.
The dark mornings make getting out of bed tough, but it’s thought that sticking to the same sleep-wake cycle every day, can help to balance the natural circadian rhythm. Encourage regular wake-up and bedtime schedules, mealtimes, and activity periods. Incorporate activities that residents enjoy and look forward to, whether weekly movie night, game day, or crafting sessions. Predictable routines provide a sense of security and comfort.
Helping care residents combat the winter blues is about creating an environment that supports physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing. By encouraging physical activity, maintaining social connections, promoting a balanced diet, brightening living spaces, and sticking to a routine, care facilities can make the winter months more manageable for their residents. Winter doesn’t have to be a season of gloom for those in care; it can be a time of warmth, connection, and contentment.
