Local Angels Help Seniors Beat the Holiday Blues

Many of us love the hustle and bustle of the holiday and all the festivities that come with it. But for the aging population, holidays can be one of the most depressing times of the year as they pine for lost loved ones and yesteryear. That's why Visiting Angels, one of the largest in-home senior care companies in the nation (with a location in our area), wants to raise awareness that local families can hire an "angel" this holiday season to help their beloved senior beat the holiday blues.

“Our caregivers socialize with seniors, take them shopping and keep them engaged instead of sitting at home feeling isolated and depressed. Our caregivers also give families a heads-up about their senior’s state-of-mind, to differentiate between the holiday blues and full-blown depression," said Larry Meigs, CEO of Visiting Angels.

Despite common belief, depression is not a normal sign of aging. And, studies show holidays trigger half of all depressive episodes. Visiting Angels caregivers can help seniors get into the Christmas spirit by helping them decorate their home, bake cookies, wrap gifts, shop online, or simply keep them company at home or take them out for coffee.

Senior Holiday Blues:

• Roughly one in four seniors (age 65 or older) suffer from depression. And, nearly one-third of all older Americans who live at home, live alone

• More than 70 percent of older Americans polled say they feel isolated and lonely

• Studies show holidays trigger half of all depressive episodes

For more information, call 903-831-5555, visit Visiting Angels online or drop by their Facebook page.