Light therapy effective in elderly patients with SAD

The winter blues can be defined as an actual condition known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Up to 10 percent of Americans suffer from the depressive symptoms of the illness annually, but it can be especially difficult for the elderly population.

Older individuals who live in retirement homes and under hospice care spend a majority of their time indoors. Because of this, they are more susceptible to SAD and its symptoms. Recently, experts discovered that light therapy may be largely effective in managing the condition in elderly people.

A study conducted by Ritsaert Lieverse examined 89 older Americans who showed depressive symptoms during the winter months. Light therapy proved to show the same positive results as antidepressants that were administered to participants. After three weeks of undergoing the treatment, approximately 43 percent of patients showed improvements on the scale of depression.

More than 20 million Americans suffer from a mood disorder every year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Although there is no cure for SAD, counseling provided by rehabilitation facilities and light therapy can help manage the condition. Regular exposure to natural sunlight can also combat symptoms of the illness.