According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the elderly are affected by depression due to changes in their lives, such as death of a loved one or isolation. Seasonal affective disorder, abbreviated as SAD, is one type of depression that can affect the elderly, especially those who are housebound. While the most common form of seasonal affective disorder occurs during the fall and winter months, rare forms can happen during the spring and summer months.
Causes
Seasonal affective disorder is thought to be caused by a lack of ambient light, changes in body temperature or issues with hormone regulation, according to NIH. Elderly patients who do not go outside often, especially during the fall and winter months, are susceptible. In addition, seasonal affective disorder can develop into major depression. NIH points out that women have seasonal affective disorder more often than men.
Symptoms
According to NIH and the Mayo Clinic, seasonal affective disorder is most often seen in the elderly during the fall and winter months. Symptoms include social withdrawal, decreased energy and concentration, lethargic movement, carbohydrate cravings, increased sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, decreased interest in activities and increased appetite with weight gain. Seasonal affective disorder can be treated with either light therapy, antidepressants or therapy, according to NIH.
Rare Forms
In rare cases, seasonal affective disorder can occur in the spring and summer, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms include anxiety, increased sex drive, insomnia, poor appetite, irritability, weight loss and agitation. In addition, reverse seasonal affective disorder can occur during the spring and summer months in the elderly. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms include persistent elevated mood, hyperactivity, increased social activity and enthusiasm. Treatment of the rare forms of seasonal affective disorder are similar to the prevalent form of seasonal affective disorder, though light therapy may not be used.
