Pipestone, MN – The winter season is upon us, and the colder weather and shorter days may cause individuals to feel more isolated, lonely, and less motivated. According to the American Psychological Association, more than 12 million Americans over age 65 live alone. During the winter months, many individuals may also choose to skip the cold and stay home more often than usual, leading to a decreased opportunity for social interaction. This increased isolation mixed with feelings of stress and anxiety that may accompany wintertime and the upcoming holidays can have a real impact on a person’s overall wellbeing. Pipestone County Medical Center’s Senior Life Solutions program is here to help older adults in the community.
Judy Elling Przybilla, Program Therapist, Senior Life Solutions, said, “For many, this time of year can bring up a lot of emotions. It can be a reminder of lost loved ones and nostalgia for family traditions, and it can make coping with life changes feel more challenging. We want to be a source of light for the older adults in our community and will do everything we can to help keep individuals supported and connected.”
• Stay within budget
Senior Life Solutions is an intensive outpatient group therapy program designed to meet the unique needs of older adults, typically ages 65 and older, struggling with depression and anxiety often related to aging. They focus on helping seniors in the community navigate difficult life transitions and regain their quality of life not just during the holiday season but year-round.
For many, the holiday blues will bring temporary feelings of depression or anxiety during the holiday season; however, those feelings will linger for some. Individuals who are already struggling with their emotional health should take steps of extra self-care during this time.
Below is a list of suggestions that may help counteract the holiday blues:
• Get enough sleep or rest
• Spend time speaking with supportive people on the phone
• Don’t drink alcohol if you are feeling down
• Get outside and take walks
• Stay within budget • Set reasonable expectations
• Do something you enjoy, whether it be walking the dog or sewing a new scarf
• Enjoy all the excellent food but don’t binge
• Celebrate a loved one’s life by sharing positive memories
• Forgive yourself. We all make mistakes.
For some, the holidays can bring on temporary depression, and for others, it may be chronic. If you or someone you know is struggling with winter blues symptoms or a difficult life transition, contact Pipestone County Medical Center Senior Life Solutions at 507-825-7210.
ABOUT Pipestone County Medical Center Senior Life Solutions
Founded in 2003, Senior Life Solutions is managed by Psychiatric Medical Care (PMC), a leading behavioral healthcare management company. Focused on addressing the needs of rural and underserved communities, PMC manages inpatient behavioral health units, intensive outpatient programs, and telehealth services in more than 25 states. The company’s services provide evaluation and treatment for patients suffering from depression, anxiety, mood disorders, memory problems, posttraumatic stress disorder, and other behavioral health problems. For more information, visit www.seniorlifesolutions.com
About Pipestone County Medical Center (PCMC)
Pipestone County Medical Center is a Critical Access Hospital offering a complete range of inpatient and outpatient services. Pipestone County Medical Center is part of Avera Health and works with Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
