How to keep elderly people active over the winter
Winter season and elderly people do not often jell with each other very well. They are mostly asked to stay inside during these cold months to protect them from falls, injuries and winter born diseases. However, it doesn’t mean that they should be restricted to staying inside throughout the season watching TV, eating and sleeping. There are various physical activities for old people that they can do in winters that will not only be enjoyable for them but will also be good for their health during chilling season. However, taking precautions is always good. Remaining active during winters in old age will result in better physical and mental health, continued independent living, improved quality of life, strengthened muscles and bones, increased energy, reduced stress, reduced aches and pains and improved ability to bear them.
Give them a healthy lifestyle:
You wish to see your ageing parents healthy and fit in all seasons but when it comes to their health in winters, lifestyle plays a crucial role. Following tips can be adapted to elderly people a healthy lifestyle:
Regular and timely meals: It is very important for ageing people to have their meals on time as it helps strengthening their immune system increasing body’s ability to fight diseases. Regular meals help keeping their energy level up and maintained. So their meals should be planned and there must be a variety in meals. Fruits, veg, hot food and drinks should are essentially included in their diet.
Stay active: Remember that elderly people must not live a sedentary lifestyle. They should keep their body active by moving around for at least once every hour. But it is very important on your part to consult their general physician before planning any exercise regime for them.
Dress for winters: They should be made to wear many layers of clothes rather than one thick dress. Clothes made of fleecy fiber, wool or cotton, are the best materials as they help maintaining body heat. They should wear shoes which has good grip as it will help them walk around properly without the fear of falling.
You can make them join some classes where there are conducted exercises or work out sessions for elderly people. Along with doing work outs, elderly people get to meet other people of their age which will help them doing work outs with fun. Besides, socializing is always good in this age as it will keep them away from stress and loneliness. Old people can also carry out their interests and activities at these centers.
