As the seasons cycle back to fall and winter, cooler weather quickly descends, bringing with it increased health concerns for seniors. With colder, stormy, and even snowy weather comes dangerous conditions and an influx of potential new illness. Seniors can be more susceptible to sickness and injury during the colder months of the year. Prevention and awareness is key to staying safe and healthy all throughout the season.
Dress in warm layers
Seniors are especially sensitive to cold conditions and more prone to complications related to cold, like hypothermia. Cover the head and extremities with hats, gloves, thick socks, and sturdy shoes to avoid letting body heat escape. Wearing layered clothing traps heat to keep you warmer when outside, and makes it easier to take off outer layers as needed once you are back inside in the warmth.
Regulate indoor temperatures
When it is cold outside, temperature inside can become a concern. There may be cold drafts seeping into the house or heaters not working. Make sure there are warm clothes, blankets, and options available for keeping the house safely at an appropriately warm temperature. Be aware of keeping the inside too warm, which can lead to overheating and also cause lower humidity in the air.
Stay away from sickness
Illness prevention is vital when it comes to elderly adults who may have lower immunity due to age or other conditions. People who are ill should avoid visiting seniors when possible or wear a mask if necessary to prevent the spread of germs. Take precautions to avoid germs when out in public like washing hands frequently and sanitizing surfaces. Talk to your healthcare provider to see which vitamins or supplements might also support immune health.
Get your flu shot early
At risk groups like seniors can get the flu shot early in the season to protect against a quicker decrease in immunity. Adults over 65 may qualify for a higher dose vaccine which boosts the immune response. Flu vaccines in the United States are designed to protect against four different types of flu, lessening the impact and severity of symptoms if you get infected.
Keep up healthy habits
It is easy to let healthy habits like eating a balanced diet and exercising when the temperature drops down and the holidays disrupt regular routines. Make time for regular low-impact exercise, indoors if necessary, to keep your body healthy and functioning well. Eating seasonal produce and warm dishes like soups and roasted vegetables is a delicious way to take care of your body. It is also harder to remember to drink water when the weather cools down, but hydration is still important throughout the year.
Contact CJ & Associates Care Consulting today to find out more about how we can help you or your elderly loved one stay healthy.
