NIAGARA, Wis. — Depression is a legitimate health issue that needs to be taken seriously. It robs many of us and our loved ones of the joy that could otherwise be experienced in life. Our northern climate — especially at this time of year — does us no favors. It seems that the cloudy days outweigh the sunny ones all too often. The time change makes the days shorter, which does not help, and the approaching holidays can be a trigger for many of us and our loved ones to feel “not so jolly,” as some family members with whom we used to share the joys of the season are no longer with us. Depression can be an elusive culprit — especially as we age — because it shows itself differently in older people. So, let’s take a look at this topic today so we can better enjoy the upcoming holidays and help our family to do the same.

Although depression is a disorder of mood, there are many physical manifestations of this disorder. Take note if any of these signs and symptoms are present in yourself or your loved one:

— Unexpected weight changes, either gains or losses.

— Appetite changes — either eating more or less than usual.

— Abnormally low energy levels.

— Drastic sleep changes — either oversleeping or insomnia.

— Complaints of physical aches and pains without a clear medical cause.

Sometimes depression will send out warning signs via the brain and thought processes and at times mimic the memory issues of dementia. Be on the lookout for these changes in how you or your loved ones are thinking:

— Decreased ability to focus and concentrate on the issue at hand.

— Higher degree of indecisiveness.

— Inability to think and reason.

There may also be behavioral signs of depression. So, take notice of these indicators:

— Their attention to personal hygiene has decreased, such as failing to wash their hair or brush their teeth.

— Their living space is more messy than usual.

— Speech and movement may be affected — are they doing either one more slowly than is typical?

— Irritability or unexplained restlessness may be evident. Are they having trouble sitting still or are they constantly fidgeting?

Certain emotional signs may be present that signify depression:

— Take note if they exhibit a loss of interest in things that used to give them pleasure.

— Watch for a pervasive sense of sadness or hopelessness. Having a few bad days can be expected, but if these feelings persist more often than not over the span of two weeks, take them seriously.

— Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or being a burden are common experiences in the depression of older adults.

— In severe cases, thoughts of death or suicide may even emerge. If these feelings have been expressed, it is imperative that treatment is sought. Early professional intervention can significantly improve quality of life.

While there isn’t a specific cause of depression in older adults, there are risk factors that can increase its likelihood. Genetics can certainly play a role; people who have family members with depression are more likely to experience it themselves. And having a medical condition such as cancer can negatively impact mental well-being.

Lifestyle factors commonly experienced in the aging population may cause depression. These typically include: lack of physical activity, an unbalanced diet, poor sleep and increased stress. Physical limitations increase with age and prevent the elderly from participating in activities that had given them joy in the past.

Finally, elderly adults spend less time with other people because work and parenting duties have diminished. Lack of social connections can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression.

Depression shows itself differently among the elderly population than in the younger generations. Older adults will more often exhibit their depression through physical signs such as pain, fatigue and confusion. These can easily be mistaken for normal aging or other health conditions, and depression can actually be missed.

Additionally, it is important to note that older adults are more likely to be experiencing the loss of loved ones or declining health, which are definite risk factors for depression. And evidence supports that the risk for suicide is increased in older men.

An interesting generational difference that contributes to undiagnosed depression in the elderly population that distinguishes them from younger generations is one of communication. Older adults may withdraw socially and be less likely to discuss their feelings due to the generational stigma surrounding mental health issues. Younger people are much more likely to discuss their emotional distress and be more open about their mental health challenges.

There are also cultural factors that play a role in making it a challenge to help people with depression. In some cultures, speaking about mental health or emotional issues is taboo because it is associated with shame or “losing face.” In these instances, it is important to watch for physical symptoms such as pain or digestion issues.

So, as a relative, friend or caring neighbor, how can we help? Remember that not everyone experiences depression in a similar way, and the diagnosis can be more complicated with older adults. Knowing this, do not hesitate to have a candid, non-judgmental conversation with the person about whom you are worried. Nothing can begin to improve unless it is first recognized and discussed. There is a good chance that they have noticed something felt different, but most often depression enters slowly and can easily be missed or misunderstood as something else. Once their feelings are out in the open and shared with a caring friend or relative, they actually feel relieved and supported.

While on the topic of how they are feeling, offer to help them by cooking a meal, doing a load of laundry or tidying up for them. Begin spending more time with them through regular visits so they are not so socially isolated. Humans need other humans. It is important to remain patient and understanding throughout this process. Remember that overcoming depression takes time and that loving support and connection can greatly help them feel better. If your own efforts do not seem to be doing enough, do not hesitate to put them in contact with a mental health professional. Everyone deserves to have their final years be as comfortable, healthy, and happy as possible.

Note: Information for today’s column was taken from an article written by Katharine Chan for the Nov. 12 issue of the verywellmind newsletter.

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NURSING HOMES/SENIOR LIVING FACILITIES

Freeman Nursing and Rehabilitation Community

Kingsford

906-774-1530

They welcome anyone who would like to entertain the residents. Volunteers are also needed to help with crafts and other activities.

On the third Tuesday of every month at 2 p.m. they host a Memory Cafe — a fun hour to spend with others. For more information, contact Jaime Hathaway at jlhathaway@protonmail.com. The program runs on donations.

Sunday: Church on TV, 10 a.m.; ice cream sundaes for staff and residents, 1:30 p.m.

Monday: Rosary, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; card club, 2 p.m.; reminisce, 3 p.m.

Tuesday: Nail day, 10 a.m.; balloon toss, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Movie hour, 10 a.m.; crafts, 1:30 p.m.

Thursday: Thanksgiving word search, 10 a.m.; family time, 3 p.m.

Friday: White board words, 10 a.m.; trivia, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.

Saturday: Word search puzzle, 10 a.m.; family time, 2 p.m.; “Weakest Link” on PBS, 7 p.m.

Iron County Medical Care Facility

Crystal Falls

906-874-1501

Sunday: Room visits, 9 a.m.; name that word, 10 a.m.; chair exercise, 10:45 a.m.; room visits, 12:30 p.m.; bingorama, 2 p.m.

Monday: Cooking, 9:30 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; DT luncheon, 11:30 a.m.; room visits, 1 p.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; Sunshine Club, 2:30 p.m.; jokes and cocoa, 6 p.m.

Tuesday: Just friends, 9 a.m.; hymn sing, 10 a.m.; travel film, 1:30 p.m.; monthly birthday party, 2 p.m.; action movie, 6 p.m.

Wednesday: Coffee social/getting pretty, 9:30 a.m.; men’s club, 10 a.m.; parachute, 10:45 a.m.; singalong with Gayle, 2 p.m.; night bingo, 6 p.m.

Thursday: Puzzler, 9:30 a.m.; turkey bowling, 10 a.m.; wildlife film, 1:30 p.m.; happy hour, 2:30 p.m.

Friday: Crafts — mandalas, 9:30 a.m.; exercise, 10:30 a.m.; room visits, 1 p.m.; trivia teasers, 2 p.m.; mystery movie, 6 p.m.

Saturday: Puzzle pack; high rollers, 9:30 a.m.; geri-gym, 10:45 a.m.; room visits, 12:30 p.m.; social hour, 2 p.m.

Optalis Healthcare

Kingsford

906-774-4805

Sunday: Devotional, 9:30 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; games, 1 p.m.

Monday: Coffee time, 9:30 a.m.; current events, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.

Tuesday: Coffee time, 9:30 a.m.; daily chronicle, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; holiday tabletop bowling, 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.

Thursday: Coffee time, 9:30 a.m.; give thanks, 10 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; holiday craft, 2 p.m.

Friday: Room visits/leisure cart, 11 a.m.

Saturday: Manicures, 9:30 a.m.; room visits, 11 a.m.; games, 1 p.m.

Maryhill Manor Nursing Home

Niagara, Wis.

715-251-3172

Families are allowed to attend activities and are encouraged to join in.

Sunday: Coffee and trivia, 10 a.m.; delivery of communion, 12:30 p.m.; movie and popcorn, 1:30 p.m.; church service, 2:30 p.m.; Packers vs. San Francisco 49ers, 3:25 p.m.

Monday: Rosary and communion service, 9 a.m.; pamper and polish, 10 a.m.; board games, 2 p.m.

Tuesday: Rosary and communion service, 9 a.m.; penny ante, 10:15 a.m.; bowling, 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Rosary/communion service, 9 a.m.; jokereno, 2 p.m.

Thursday: Macy’s Day Parade (NBC), 9 a.m.; Packers vs. Miami Dolphins, 7:20 p.m.

Friday: Short stories, 10 a.m.; C & R happy hour with Ray and Mindy, 2 p.m.

Saturday: Uno, 10 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; write a letter.

Northshore Healthcare

Florence, Wis.

715-528-4833

Sunday: Independent activities.

Monday: Coffee social with cookies, 10 a.m.; table games, 2 p.m.

Tuesday: Group word search, 10 a.m.; manicure, 2 p.m.

Wednesday: Exercise/dance or chair dance, 10 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.

Thursday: Pastor Jason/Bible study, 10 a.m.; bean bag toss, 2 p.m.

Friday: Catholic communion, 10 a.m.; word search, 10:30 a.m.; happy hour, 2 p.m.

Saturday: Independent activities.

Victorian Pines

Iron Mountain

906-774-5158

Sunday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; Bible study, 1:30 p.m.

Monday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo and refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Tuesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; trivia and refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Wednesday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; bingo and refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Thursday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Friday: Juice time, 10 a.m.; exercise, 11 a.m.; refreshments, 1:30 p.m.

Saturday: Juice time, 10 a.m.

Pinecrest Medical

Care Facility

Powers

906-497-5244

Sunday: Morning visits and reality orientation; bunco, 10 a.m.; trivia, 11:15 a.m.; church services, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday funday, 2:30 p.m.; coloring pages, daily chronicles.

Monday: Morning visits and reality orientation; open room, 9:30 a.m.; wacky wordies, 11 a.m.; manicures, 1:45 p.m.; book club, 4 p.m.; movie night, 6 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Tuesday: Morning visits and reality orientation; open room, 9:30 a.m.; juice hour, 11 a.m.; bingo, 1:45 p.m.; rummy, 4 p.m.; daily chronicles; shopping at Family Dollar.

Wednesday: Morning visits and reality orientation; open room, 9:30 a.m.; who-what-where, 11 a.m.; crafty Wednesday, 2 p.m.; travelogue, 4 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Thursday: Morning visits and reality orientation; open room, 9:30 a.m.; unexpected blessing, 11 a.m.; bingo, 2 p.m.; turkey drawing, 4 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Friday: Morning visits and reality orientation, Catholic Mass, 10:30 a.m.; “American Bandstand,” 11 a.m.; hot rocks and dice rolls, 2 p.m.; book club, 4 p.m.; game night, 6 p.m.; daily chronicles.

Saturday: Morning visits and reality orientation, exercise group, 10 a.m.; trivia, 11:15 a.m.; bingo, 1:45 p.m.; one-to-one visits, 3 p.m.; daily chronicles.

SENIOR CENTERS

Amasa Center

906-822-7284

Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Deluxe chef salad, cottage cheese, pineapple, egg salad slider.

Wednesday: Holiday Meal — Turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, green bean casserole, dinner roll, pumpkin pie.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

Breen Center

Kingsford

906-774-5110

Dine-in eating Monday through Thursday — salad bar at 11:30 a.m., meal at noon. Carryout meals are available. Soup and salad bar are also available. Friday and night meals are on hold indefinitely. Menu for the week —

Monday: Holiday Meal — Turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, dressing, corn souffle, pumpkin bars.

Tuesday: Chicken salad on a bun, cold carrot salad, baked macaroni and cheese, pudding cup.

Wednesday: Meat loaf, mashed potatoes with gravy, buttered peas.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

Note: All meals served with a choice of skim milk or juice and fruit.

Crystal Falls Center

Head Cook: Elizabeth Peryam

Assistant Cooks: Debbie Bigalke and Shannon Stapleton

906-875-6709

The center is serving meals for dine-in or takeout – call the center by 1 p.m. to make reservations or place an order. All food purchased from local vendors. All dinners include warm vegetables, salad bar, soup, homemade desserts, coffee, tea or milk. Salad bar begins at 4:30 p.m. and dinner is served at 5 p.m. Pickup for takeout meals is 4 p.m. – call ahead and leave a message with a phone number. A volunteer will deliver meals to homebound citizens only. Menu for the week —

Monday: Spanish rice with tortilla chips.

Tuesday: Chicken ala king over egg noodles.

Wednesday: Pork chops with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Home-delivered meals (prepared by DICSA — independent from above menu)

Monday: Chili, side salad, cornbread.

Tuesday: Mushroom Swiss burger, oven-baked fries, baked macaroni and cheese; chicken Florentine casserole, buttered pasta, baby carrots (delivered for Thanksgiving Thursday).

Wednesday: Turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberries.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

Dickinson-Iron Community Services Agency

DICSA

Iron Mountain

906-774-2256, ext. 230 or 235

This is a Meals on Wheels program only. Home-delivered meals only — call to make arrangements. Menu for the week —

Monday: Chili, side salad, cornbread.

Tuesday: Mushroom Swiss burger, oven-baked fries, baked macaroni and cheese; chicken Florentine casserole, buttered pasta, baby carrots (delivered for Thanksgiving Thursday).

Wednesday: Turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberries.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

Friday: Sack lunch — Two scrambled egg muffins, hash browns, fresh banana, yogurt cup.

Note: All meals include a choice of skim milk, juice, or no beverage.

For more information, call Christine McMahon at 906-774-2256.

Crystal Lake Center

Iron Mountain

906-828-1776

Schedule for the week:

Monday: Les Artistes art club, noon to 4 p.m.; woodcarvers, starting at 9 a.m.

Tuesday: Cards — Pinochle and cribbage, noon to 4 p.m.; Happy Quilters, noon to 3 p.m.

Wednesday: Bingo, 1 to 3 p.m.; cards cost 25 cents with 10 games played.

Thursday: Spinning Spools quilting, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Friday: Cards — smear, noon to 4 p.m.

Felch Center

906-246-3559

Open for dine-in eating — call for serving times. Carryout meals also available.

Menu for the week —

Monday: Chicken stir fry with vegetables, boiled rice, egg roll, fortune cookies.

Tuesday: Hamburger gravy over mashed potatoes, buttered peas, dinner roll.

Wednesday: Ham and cheese slider, creamy tomato soup, baked apples with caramel sauce.

Note: All meals served with skim milk or juice.

Home-delivered meals —

Monday: Chili, side salad, cornbread.

Tuesday: Mushroom Swiss burger, oven-baked fries, baked macaroni and cheese; chicken Florentine casserole, buttered pasta, baby carrots (delivered for Thanksgiving Thursday).

Wednesday: Turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberries.

Aging and Disability Resource Center

Florence County, Wis.

715-528-4890

Director: Tiffany White

Menu for the week —

Monday: Hunter’s chili, cornbread, cucumber salad, fruit.

Tuesday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, creamed corn, fruit.

Wednesday: Brat on a bun, baked beans, potato salad, cole slaw, fruit salad.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

Friday: All centers closed.

Note: All meals served with whole grain bread, butter and milk.

Fence Center/Town Hall

715-336-2980

RSVP for meal at 855-528-2372

Same as ADRC menu, served at noon on Wednesday only.

Florence Community Center/Town Hall

RSVP for meal at 715-528-4261

Open Wednesday and Thursday serving at 11:30 a.m.

Reservations for a meal onsite need to be made 48 hours in advance by calling the above number.

Tipler Town Hall

RSVP for meals at 715-674-2320

Same as ADRC menu, served at noon on second Thursday only.

Hillcrest Senior Dining Center, Aurora

RSVP for meals at 715-589-4491

Same as ADRC menu. Now open, served at 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday.

Hermansville Center

Coordinator: Barb Peters

906-498-7735

Center is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. Meals are served through the Menominee-Delta-Schoolcraft Community Action Agency in Escanaba. Meals On Wheels program is available for those who are homebound.

Monday: Bourbon steak, rice, wax beans, carrots, fruited yogurt.

Tuesday: Baked ham, sweet potatoes, Prince Charles vegetables, whole wheat bread, fruit cup.

Wednesday: Swedish meatballs, egg noodles, beets, peas and carrots, whole wheat bread, fruit cocktail.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

Friday: Closed.

Iron River Center

906-265-6134

Salad bar begins at 11 a.m., meal is served at 11:30 a.m. No night meals. Carryout meals also available. Menu for the week —

Monday: Chicken salad on a bun, string cheese, potato chips, granola parfait.

Tuesday: Pancakes, hash browns, yogurt, pears; Thursday’s meal will also be delivered — Deluxe chef salad, cottage cheese, pineapple.

Wednesday: Turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, green bean casserole, dinner roll, dessert.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

All meals are served with choice of skim milk or juice and fruit.

Niagara Senior Center/Cafe

715-251-1603

Dinner is served at noon Monday through Thursday. Reservations are required one day in advance. Suggested donation is $5 for those older than 60 and $11 for 60 and younger. Bingo played on most Wednesdays. Transportation is available.

Tuesday: Chicken parmesan with red sauce, penne pasta, carrots, cinnamon applesauce.

Wednesday: Sloppy Joes, German potato salad, pea and cheese salad, blueberry torte.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

The center will have bingo on Tuesdays and Wednesdays this month.

Norway Center

Director: Joyce Olesky

906-563-8716

Dine-in eating begins at 11:15 a.m. Salad bar is available from 10:30 to 11 a.m. Takeout meals are available for pick-up from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Let staff know in advance if planning to dine in or pick up.

Menu for the week —

Monday: Thanksgiving meal — Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans.

Tuesday: Cod, sweet potato fries, broccoli.

Wednesday: Lasagna, garlic bread, cauliflower.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

All meals include milk, juice, fruit, bread and dessert.

Center activity schedule:

Mondays and Thursdays — Exercise at 10 a.m. and card bingo after the meal.

Monday through Thursday — Card game 101 from noon to 3 p.m. Call Joe at 906-563-5587 for information.

Tuesdays — Quilting and sewing.

Wednesdays — Ceramics and crocheting.

Last Monday of each month — Book club at 9 a.m.

Second Thursday of each month — Birthdays and bingo.

Sagola Center

906-542-3273

Dine-in meals served, salad bar opens at 11 a.m. and meal at 11:30 a.m. Carryout meals also available.

Menu for the week —

Tuesday: Philly cheese sandwich, baked fries, broccoli.

Wednesday: Thanksgiving Meal — Turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole, dinner roll, pumpkin pie.

Thursday: Closed for Thanksgiving.

All meals served with an option of milk, juice or no beverage.

Home delivered meals —

Monday: Chili, side salad, cornbread.

Tuesday: Mushroom Swiss burger, oven-baked fries, baked macaroni and cheese; and meal of chicken Florentine casserole, buttered pasta and baby carrots, delivered for Thanksgiving Thursday.

Wednesday: Turkey, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberries.