Georgeann Russell, PhD, will lead a discussion on senior blues at “Breakfast with the Docs” at 8:30 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 16 at the Oak Park Arms retirement community, 408 S. Oak Park Ave.
When the days are shorter and the weather limits activities and travel, it is easy for people to begin experiencing winter blues. Seniors can be especially affected because they often choose to stay inside during the cold weather, which may cause them to feel lonely and depressed.
There are simple ways seniors can help combat winter blues, the most important of which is participation in activities and exercise. Social interaction through activities will help eliminate any feelings of isolation, and exercise helps improve one’s mood by releasing endorphins in the brain, the effects of which can last for hours.
Other easy ways to brighten one’s spirits include:
• leaving blinds open during the day for sunlight
• replacing lights in the home with bulbs that mimic natural light
• setting goals (and actually working toward them)
• maintaining a proper diet for energy and to stabilize mood
Dr. Russell is a clinical psychologist practicing in River Forest. She will explain why seniors’ moods can dampen during winter and share useful, easy ways they can begin to feel better.
Oak Park Arms Senior Living is a rental retirement community which provides senior housing in the form of independent living. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay – a weekend, a week, a month or longer.
The event is free and open to the public. And it’s not called “Breakfast with the Docs” for nothing: participants who attend will also be served a healthy breakfast.
For more information, or to reserve a seat, call 708-386-4040.
