Avoiding the cold is an essential part of winter safety, but when it comes to your health, it’s only half the battle. There are lots of ways a senior can adapt and thrive throughout the coldest months of the year. Learn how to stay healthy in winter, and you’ll be in great shape to enjoy spring when it comes around.
How to Stay Healthy in Winter
If you’re a senior, you probably know that the winter months can be difficult for those in their golden years. Avoiding the cold and making a safety plan for slips and falls is essential, but it’s not the only thing a savvy senior will plan to do. Make a plan for how to stay healthy in winter, and you’ll be able to keep all your bases covered.
Stay Connected to Your Community
Your mental and physical health are linked, so focusing on keeping yourself mentally in a good place throughout the winter is essential. One mental health danger that many seniors face over the winter is social isolation. It may be tempting to hide inside when it’s cold out, but avoiding supportive social connections can lead to anxiety and depression. You can find winter-friendly ways to socialize safely, such as indoor activities and phone calls with friends.
Keep Your Body Active
Winter is a natural time to slow down and relax, but don’t overdo it. It’s important to continue getting regular exercise to maintain your physical and mental health. Exercise outside may not be feasible, but there are lots of ways to build physical activity into your daily routine. There are even low-impact indoor exercise routines designed just for seniors like you, full of activities you can do in the comfort of your favorite chair. Why not check them out?
Maintain a Healthy Diet
Since it’s a little harder to get all the exercise we need in the winter, it’s essential to ensure you’re eating a nutritious diet. Aim for a balanced plate at every meal with a variety of fruits and vegetables, and be sure to talk to your doctor about any dietary concerns like vitamin deficiencies. It’s also a good idea to ensure you’re drinking plenty of water, as it can be easy to forget when the heat isn’t making you thirsty!
Avoid Colds and Flu
Have you gotten your flu shot yet? If not, it’s time to do so. Cold and flu season is usually in full swing during the winter months, so make protecting yourself a priority. Carry and use hand sanitizer, wash your hands frequently, and stay away from people who aren’t feeling well. Be sure to sanitize areas and objects you touch multiple times a day, as those can pick up germs more quickly than you might realize. (Yes, that includes your cell phone!) You can give yourself a germ-fighting boost with fluids and extra vitamin C.
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Do you know how to stay healthy in winter? If you could use extra help in the coldest months of the year, the Shores of Lake Phalen can provide it. Give us a call and discover why so many seniors spend the winter with us.
P.S. Be sure to check out our blog post How to Keep Your Feet Warm in Winter!
Are you looking for a community that provides a positive, healthy atmosphere where you can live out your golden years? The Shores of Lake Phalen is an assisted living and memory care community in a quiet, peaceful environment in Maplewood, Minnesota. Surrounded by a gorgeous wooded setting between two lakes, our residence offers the accessibility of apartment-style housing with the atmosphere and elegance of a resort. We offer numerous health and safety amenities, fun events and activities, a friendly and accommodating staff, and much more. Schedule a tour of the community to explore our spacious apartments, elegant dining room, and more. We look forward to hearing from you!