5 Winter Health Tips to Keep Senior Safe and Sound
Winter isn’t always a wonderland, especially for those that are aging. If you are 65 or older, or you have a loved one that is, it’s important to be vigilant about health and safety in winter. These 5 tips are for senior citizen health and safety in the colder months.
1. Keep an eye on seasonal depression
In winter, the lack of warmth and gloomy clouds overhead make it difficult to enjoy the day. Even those in their younger years can suffer from seasonal depression, but it’s far worse for older folks. On top of that, the lack of vitamin D from the sun can make health problems worse.
To fight off this gloom, make sure to connect with others. Even with the pandemic, you can stay in touch via video chats. Get exercise where you can too. Walking in a warm surrounding can be beneficial for physical and mental health.
2. Stay warm
The older you get, the more important it is to protect from hypothermia. Bundle up with plenty of layers to prevent shivering. Never skip a scarf either as that can help protect the lungs. A hat is also important to keep heat in the body.
3. Be sure-footed
Senior citizens are more prone to falls than any other age group. Add to that snow and ice and it can become even more dangerous. It’s a wise idea to make sure that your shoes have plenty of non-slip tread intact on them to keep you from slipping and falling inside and outside the house.
4. Focus on nutrition
Remember what we said about the lack of sun? Without ample exposure, you’re missing out on vitamin D. Make sure you get it through foods that are rich in vitamin D and calcium to make up for it. Things like fish, eggs, and milk can certainly help though a proper multivitamin for seniors can ensure any vitamin deficiencies are corrected.
5. Keep temperatures balanced
Body temperature for seniors should always be monitored. It’s dangerous if it drops below 95F. Keeping the temperatures indoors at a constant and warm level is important. When going outdoors, clothing should be worn in layers. Bringing along extra layers can be beneficial to add or remove as needed.
Senior citizens still have plenty of livelihood left in them, but making sure they take these precautions can surely help them enjoy these golden years. If you need extra help in these times, let our expertly trained staff come to your home to keep you safe in winter, and year-round too!
