Risks for Seniors

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Stress in seniors and those with chronic health concerns

Seniors are also more likely to suffer from depression, an illness that tends to get worse in the holiday season. The reasons include stress from knowing that one can't enjoy the holidays as much as in the past, memories of spouses and family who may have died and the resulting loneliness.

In addition, as people age and their physical endurance and abilities become limited, they tend to worry more. This is natural. However, it is also estimated that up to 20% of those over 65 are estimated to suffer from some form of excessive anxiety, including phobias.

Another cause of depression is seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD is caused, in part, by a lack of exposure to daylight. In the cold and icy Wisconsin winters, seniors and those who are chronically ill are more likely to stay inside during the winter months, which may increase their problems.

Read more about older adults and depression from the National Institute of Mental Health.