Has Earned the Prestigious Diamond Certified Award

 

 

Independently Rated Highest in Quality

 

Diamond Certified 

 

Has the distinct honor of being Certified by the California Association for Health Services at Home

 

 

Lucy Andrew's

Elder Care Blog:

 

Understanding

Dementia

 

 

 

- Mark Twain 

 

 Favorite Holiday Recipe:

 

 

 December is National Seasonal Depression Awareness Month

Depression among senior citizens is a more common problem than people might think.  Growing old in itself certainly involves a variety of life stressors that can lead to depression.  Some may have trouble making the transition from full time productive careers to retirement.  Other people are forced to retire because of health problems or disabilities.  The loss of a loved one or a serious illness of a spouse or friend can create sadness.  Loss of driving privileges and social isolation can lead to loneliness.  However, despite these problems, depression is not normal at any age.

 

Statistics show that approximately 6 million Americans age 65 and older suffer from depression.  There are a number of different forms of depression, just as there are causes and triggers.  Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also called Winter Depression, is a seasonal type of depression seen in the Fall and Winter seasons.  During the shorter daylight hours, especially with grey, overcast skies, depressing thoughts can overwhelm us.  It is especially difficult to experience sadness when we are expected to be and act jovial amidst holiday activities.  Women are three times more likely than men to suffer from SAD.  People who live in colder climates have a higher incidence of SAD than do those who live in warm, sunny locations.

 

Some of the most common signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder are:

Some of the ways to prevent SAD are:

SAD is treatable, and there are various treatment methods:

If you feel you are suffering from SAD, it is important to seek the help of a trained medical professional. 

 

One of the best antidotes to depression is companionship, which can be found in several ways:  activities through senior centers, joining a church or other organization, or through an agency that provides personal caregivers/companions.  Contact At Your Service Home Care for more information.

Caregiver Spotlight: 

Ashley has only been with At Your Service Home Care for four months and has already proven herself to be a great caregiver.  She is never afraid to take on tough cases and completes her tasks with a smile on her face.  When Ashley is not helping clients, you can find her mountain biking in Annadel State Park.  She is currently taking general education classes at the Santa Rosa Junior College with aspirations of enrolling in their Nursing School.  Ashley is a great employee and an outstanding addition to the AYS team.  Thanks for your help!