There is certainly plenty to love about a beautiful season like winter. The blanketing snow changes the aesthetics of our surroundings to a gorgeous pale colour, while the cold air tastes deliciously crisp. A walk in the park or a hot cup of coffee gains new meaning in the cooler climate.
Anyone can enjoy this precious time of the year. However, older adults may need to take a few extra precautions during winter for their mental and physical health.
Join A Community
Living in a thriving retirement community is a great way for older adults to avoid isolation during the winter. For example, All Seniors Care offers daily activities in their strong and vibrant communities. It also supports healthy lifestyles and aids its residents through a positive and proactive client-centred approach.
Stay Warm
You may be tempted to raise your thermostat higher than 70° F during the winter. However, this can lead to nasal and skin dryness. Instead, consider layering to stay warm. Try warm and comfortable garments such as a thermal undershirt, sweater, leggings, thick socks, and fleece slippers.
Likewise, wear a warm winter jacket, gloves, knit hat, scarf, and winter shoes when outdoors. Look for clothing with fleece lining to shield yourself. Mix up the colours to stay festive!
Walk with Safety Precautions
Walking outside during the winter can be an excellent activity with the right precautions. Please consider adopting the following measures to enjoy delightful winter walks safely:
- Utilize mobility or gait aids like canes, walkers, or rollators.
- Learn to use your gait aid when losing your balance.
- Ensure that your footwear has anti-slip features like shoe traction or ice cleats.
- Please completely avoid icy surfaces.
- Add an ice grip to your cane tip for safety.
- Walk more deliberately and carefully.
- Charge your mobile phone before leaving home and carry it with you for emergencies.
- Try to schedule your winter walks during the daytime.
- Join a walking group to stay secure during your outdoor activity.
Keep Up with Immunizations
Ailments like the cold and flu rise during the winter as we spend more time indoors. Please consult with your physician about immunizations. Vaccines and boosters can give your immune system a helping hand against seasonal bugs.
Get Vitamin D
Some older adults get less vitamin D during the winter. The lack of exposure to the sun combined with challenges absorbing vitamin D can play a role. Please consult your physician to learn if you need multivitamins.
You can also find vitamin D in food such as fatty fish, fortified cereal, and fortified milk. A fortified milk and fortified cereal combination can be a delicious and healthy breakfast option for older adults!
Eat Healthy
Eating microwave dinners or fast food during the cold season can be tempting. But try a balanced diet of healthy food that includes vegetables, fruits, grains, lean protein, and dairy for more energy during the winter.
Everyone, including older adults, can enjoy the cold season with some preparedness. Stay warm, watch out for bugs, eat healthily, and join a thriving community to have an excellent winter.
