When the Days Grow Shorter: Caring for Ourselves Through the Darker Months

As the days grow shorter and Seattle settles into its season of clouds and early sunsets, many of us start to feel our energy dip. For older adults especially, the long evenings, chilly damp weather, and weeks of gray skies can make it harder to get outside, stay active, or connect with others. This shift can quietly affect mood and mental health, sometimes showing up as fatigue, sadness, or a sense of isolation.

We know how much light matters, and here in the Pacific Northwest, the lack of it is real. With fewer bright days, our natural rhythms change, often leading to sluggishness or even seasonal depression. For people who may already spend more time indoors, the combination of low light, colder temperatures, and reduced social interaction can deepen feelings of loneliness.

And just as we begin to adjust to Seattle’s cozy but dim fall and winter pace, the holiday season arrives. It can bring moments of joy, but also pressure, expectations to feel festive, gatherings that highlight absence or loss, and the stress of busy schedules. For those living alone, this time of year can feel especially heavy.

But even in our grayest months, there are simple ways to brighten the days. Small, gentle steps can make a real difference:

• Seek natural light. Sit near a window during the brightest part of the day.

• Take brief outdoor breaks. A short walk during a break in the rain can boost energy and mood.

• Use warm indoor lighting. Soft, cozy light can help create a sense of comfort.

• Stay connected. Call a friend, join a virtual or in-person community activity, or share a warm drink with a neighbor.

Practicing gratitude can also be a powerful emotional anchor:

• Write down one or two bright spots each day—a friendly conversation, a hot cup of coffee, a memory that made you smile.

• Notice small moments of goodness. Even pausing to appreciate something simple can offer a surprising sense of warmth.

• Build the habit gently. Over time, these small reflections can lift the spirit and build resilience.

And as always, it is more than okay to reach out for support. No one is meant to move through the darker months alone.

At EFS, we see every day how powerful these small connections are. A ride, a friendly visit, a quick check-in call, each one brings a little warmth and light, even when the sky outside is overcast. Together, we can help make this season not just manageable, but meaningful, comforting, and full of moments that brighten even Seattle’s grayest days.