Winter can be many things – a relief from the warm weather, the start of winter sports season, and even the possibility of snow. Yet, it can also result in ice and freezing cold temperatures as well as the rise in flu cases. While you may enjoy the weather, you may not enjoy these aspects of this time of year. It’s important to take steps to stay healthy throughout this season.
Dress Appropriately
While it might be snug and warm inside, the second that you walk outside, you need to be prepared for the weather. Always dress in lawyers. Seniors are highly susceptible to colder temperatures, and too much exposure to freezing temperatures can result in hypothermia, frostbite, and other illnesses. And to ensure that you won’t be exposed to terribly cold temperatures, stay inside if the thermometer drops too far below freezing.
Beware of Icy or Snowy Sidewalks
If you live in a senior living community, sidewalks will be cleared on a regular basis. If you still in your own home or you’re taking a stroll around your community or shopping area, sidewalks and crosswalks might be covered in ice and snow. If you’re not careful, this can result in slips or falls, which can easily lead to fractured bones or dislocations.
If you still plan on leaving the house or retirement community, invest in ice claws. These can be attached to your shoes and reduce the possibility of slipping.
Stay Healthy
Many of us will tend to hibernate during the winter, reducing our outdoor activities and social interactions. This can lead to depression, especially around the holidays. Poor mental health can lead to reduced immune resistance and other physical issues.
On nice days, go for a walk. If that’s not possible, go to your fitness center or to the swimming pool. Participate in social activities with your friends and family. Host dinner parties. Participate in the daily activities at your retirement home. Take steps that keep you active.
Try a New Hobby
If most of your favorite things to do involve being outside, then it might be time to think about starting a new activity. Consider picking up crocheting or knitting. If these types of activities aren’t your cup of tea, then join a book club or maybe even learn how to do standup. New fitness activities like yoga or tai chi can keep you active as well as improve your range of movement. The possibilities are endless.
If you’re living in a retirement community, check out the monthly calendar. See what’s being offered. You might find inspiration there to learn something new!
Get Your Flu Shot
While the flu shot is important every year, it’s especially crucial this year with the chance of contracting both flu and COVID-19. Being up to date on your shots will reduce your chances of contracting these.
Wear Your Masks
If you’re going out in mixed company, most of us will be indoors. With the threat of COVID-19 still high in many places, wearing a mask while indoors will reduce your chances of being infected.
Watch Your Diet
Because many of us are less active during winter, you could gain weight. People tend to snack more or just eat whatever is easiest to make. You must eat a balanced diet throughout the year. Luckily, if you’re staying in a senior living community like The Mansions, this is quite easy with our chef-prepared meals. We’ll ensure that you get balanced meal no matter what the outside weather is like.
Take Care of Your Skin
Winter can be brutal on your skin. The air is typically drier, and we’re probably running the heat to stay warm. This can lead to cracked or dry skin. Have plenty of moisturizer on hand, and make it a point to hydrate your skin at least once a day.
Another issue is that skin can become thinner during the winter. You should always wear some light outer layers to protect your skin.
Many of us forget that even though it’s winter, you can still get sunburned. Be sure to always wear sunscreen any time that you’re outside. If you take part in winter sports, sun reflection off the snow and ice can lead to bad sunburns. Take precautions!
Let Us Remove the Stress of Winter!
At The Mansions, we’ll take care of all your winter needs. If you need to go to a local restaurant or shopping area, we’ll do the driving. No need to fight the winter conditions. Our sidewalks and outside common areas are always cleared of snow and ice to ensure your safety.
With our included meals and fitness/wellness center, you can stay healthy all winter long. You also won’t feel alone when you take advantage of our packed activity calendar. Schedule a tour today. We look forward to showing you everything that The Mansions has offer!