As we age, winter can become a challenging month for many. Along with being more susceptible to health problems, it’s also normal to feel lonelier or struggle with the change in weather. Mobility can often be a challenge as it gets colder, with hazards such as ice or slippery surfaces being dangerous for the elderly. Here are some tips to stay safe, warm and happy as the season changes.
Staying Active
Keeping active, even in winter, is important to maintaining your mobility and general mental wellbeing. As the temperature drops, it’s great to get out on walks for fresh air and movement. If you are going outside, make sure you wrap up to stay warm. Regular movement will help you to maintain your strength and mobility – this can be done inside your home too. Gentle activity such as yoga, stretching or chair-based exercises are amazing at keeping you agile while not being too strenuous.
If you struggle with your mobility, getting out is still good for your mental and physical wellbeing. A mobility scooter gives you the independence to get from A to B, without adding too much strain. At East Coast Mobility, we have a range of scooters to suit your lifestyle, as well as our Rise and Recline chairs which provide you with added comfort and convenience at home.
Food and Drink
A balanced diet can help you maintain energy levels, so you can stay active as much as possible. It’s important that as you get older you aim to get your vitamins and minerals from your food, but there are also supplements available if you are unable to get sufficient levels from diet alone. Healthy eating will also help your immune system, which can be weakened in this colder season.
It’s normal to feel less thirsty in these months, but it’s imperative that you stay hydrated. Three nutritious meals a day paired with sufficient fluid intake will also help to keep you warm.
Staying Warm
As the temperature plummets, the elderly are more vulnerable to the cold due to their reduced body heat retention and circulation. Even when staying indoors, layering up is advised to stay nice and warm. Blankets, hot water bottles and hot drinks can all help to keep you toasty.
When going out and about, it’s important to stay warm with a good coat. Gloves, scarves and hats are also great to keep your extremities protected from the weather. When layering, thermal garments and socks can make a big difference in ensuring you feel cosy, even outside.
In your house, closing curtains can help to keep the heat in and you can block out draughts under doors with under door draught excluders.
Preventing Illness
Flu season is usually at its peak in winter months. Older people will be more at risk with weaker immune systems. Therefore, flu vaccinations are recommended for older adults and their carers to prevent this. To reduce germs spreading, regularly wash your hands properly.
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