Cooler weather is coming to Santa Fe. It’s well-documented that season changes have profound effects on our lifestyle, mood and even mental well-being, so let’s investigate how the season change might affect your balance and fall risk.
The Effect of Shorter, Darker Days on Your Body
As days grow shorter and we spend more time in the dark, it can have ripple effects on our health, indirectly influencing our bodies and mental well-being in unexpected ways. Internal changes can affect your stability.
Sleep and Fatigue
Your body’s internal clock takes its cues from the light. When darkness encroaches, it leads to delayed wake times and earlier bedtimes. This disruption to your sleep pattern leads to lower energy levels and increased sleepiness during the day. In addition, the decrease in light increases your natural melatonin production. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep; increased levels of it will make you feel more tired.
Fatigue and tiredness are known risk factors for falls. Decreased energy levels and alertness, both of which come with tiredness, will make balance harder. Fatigue is also associated with diminished physical capability and strength, which you need in order to catch yourself if you start to lose your balance.
Mental Health
Less exposure to sunlight is also linked to decreased levels of vitamin D and serotonin, both of which are associated with mood. Lower levels of vitamin D and/or serotonin are known to contribute to feelings of sadness, depression and anxiety. In fact, as much as 20% of the American population is affected by seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which is a form of depression triggered by seasonal changes.
While mental health is not directly linked to fall risk, the effects of SAD can indirectly influence balance by decreasing motivation and energy, making you less likely to exercise and meet up with friends. As mentioned above, diminished strength affects your ability to balance, and social isolation makes falling exceedingly dangerous.
How To Adapt
You can keep your balance in shape during the season change by incorporating the following into your routine:
- Optimize sleep. Make sure you’re getting the rest you need and waking up energized. Stick to a consistent sleep schedule to keep your circadian rhythm stable.
- Stay active. Studies show that older adults are significantly more sedentary (e.g., less physically active) during colder months. Find ways to stay active, such as going for a walk every day, taking an exercise class or doing balance exercises at home.
- Maintain social connections. Talk to friends, family or health professionals about your mental health and how you’re managing the season change.
- See a balance specialist. If you start noticing signs of balance issues or a balance disorder, such as dizziness or feeling lightheaded, seek out a specialist to discuss your symptoms and possibly undergo a balance test.
Our team at Southwestern Hearing & Balance provides thoughtful and comprehensive balance care, and we’re here to support you during the season change. Call today to make an appointment.