By Sonia Khosla

Winter, with its shorter days and frigid temperatures, can be a challenging time for older adults. Feelings of loneliness and isolation can increase the risk of death, depression, anxiety, heart disease, dementia and thoughts of suicide. As winter approaches, it is crucial to maintain social engagement and combat loneliness and cabin fever. So, before you cancel plans, you might consider these ways to connect with others that align with your lifestyle.

It is common to have changes in mood or behavior during the winter, but it might be time to talk to someone if your symptoms are constant or apparent most of the time, last for two weeks or longer, and/or are negatively affecting your daily life. We’re here for you. Walk-in services, known as Open Access, are available at Johnson County Mental Health Center’s Olathe and Shawnee locations beginning at 9 a.m. Monday through Friday.

Sonia Khosla is communications coordinator at the Johnson County Mental Health Center.