Independent Living: Come Home for the Holidays
By Shirley Long, Parkview in Frisco, Collin County LIVING WELL MAGAZINE
Most of us think of the holidays as an exciting, happy time that we look forward to all year long. However, for our older population, sometimes this proves to be a special challenge. There is more depression during this season than any other time of the year. The holidays seem to intensify these feelings because they bring memories of happier times that are missed. Children are grown and living their lives. Possibly they have lost their spouse. The days become shorter and darker as the holidays approach. This all could lead to feeling down and depressed.
The holiday season should be a time for joy. To assist in making the holidays more enjoyable, consider including social get-togethers, activities and physical exercise in your daily routine.
- Make an effort to be around other people, even though you may feel that you want to isolate yourself from the rest of the world. Accept invitations to parties. Invite friends into your home.
- Maybe you should consider volunteering at the library, children’s day care, the hospital or at your church.
- Be flexible when it comes to holiday activities.
- And don’t forget the value of physical exercise. The increased blood flow and oxygen helps lift your mood while building stamina. It is a natural mood booster.
The holidays were meant to be shared. If you are living alone, it is harder to make the effort to become involved. Maybe it is time to visit an independent living community for seniors. There is always something going on and someone to do it with.
Parkview in Frisco is an all-inclusive lifestyle community for seniors located at 7450 Stonebrook Parkway, Frisco, Texas 75034. For more information, call 972-377-6744 or visit www.parkviewinfrisco.com.
