Winter season can be troublesome particularly for senior citizens. This blog offers helpful tips for senior citizens to deal with the challenging parts of the winter months. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways senior citizens can stay healthy in winter season. Following some easy healthcare tips will enable them to enjoy the better parts of the chilly season.
How senior citizens can stay healthy in winter season
Staying active indoors
Senior citizens may enjoy going for a walk or golfing in warmer months. However, during the winter months they tend to remain indoors in an effort to stay out of the cold and are less active. This can exacerbate existing circulation issues. Fortunately, there are lots of ways to stay active indoors. Why not try indoor yoga of water aerobics classes?
Exposure to natural light can prevent SAD
Senior citizens may suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during winter. SAD is a form of depression that is associated with winter. Reduced exposure to natural light, along with existing feelings of depression or isolation, are the main causes of SAD. In an effort to balance one’s serotonin and melatonin levels, senior citizens should spend some time in natural light. This can be obtained by enjoying a cup of tea in a sunny spot or doing some light gardening.
Keep the flu at bay
Ensure your elderly loved ones get the annual flu shot, if they do not have a history of adverse reactions. Senior citizens over the age of 65 have a higher chance of developing complications in the event that they get influenza. It is also important to ensure family members who regularly interact with senior citizens, get the flu shot. It is beneficial for both senior citizens and younger family members.
Eat balanced meals
Eating balanced meals are applicable to all age groups, not just senior citizens. During winter, it is not so easy to stick to a diet and one tends to reach for unhealthy comfort food. Nonetheless, maintaining a balanced diet during winter is crucial in order to stay healthy. Ensure your senior loved ones have enough fresh fruit and veggies and urge them to try healthy slow cooker and soup recipes as part of home health care.
Beat boredom with mental activities
It is normal that senior citizens would rather spend more time indoors in bed or on the sofa during winter. As previously stated, this can lead to depression and anxiety. Beat the boredom blues by encouraging your senior loved ones to engage in mental activities. Ask granny to knit a scarf or gloves or give seniors at home sudoku or a puzzle.
With a little preparation, senior citizens can stay healthy in winter season. Ensure they have enough warm clothes and healthy food and encourage indoor activities that are both mentally and physically beneficial to ensure senior health and wellness.
Health disclaimer
This blog post does not provide medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the Kiaat Private Hospital site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial +27(0)13 590 9150 for hospital reception or +27(0)13 590 9161 for 24 Hour Emergency.
