Cold weather and changes in your routine can make it challenging to stay active and on top of your healthcare needs. Do not let your well-being take a back seat as the weather cools down. Here are some ways to prioritize your health during the chillier seasons.
Colder weather, travel, and visitors may make it difficult to prioritize balanced nutrition, particularly during the winter. A balanced diet is essential for aging adults. Maintaining proper nutrition helps support energy, immune functions and overall health. Consider these tips to stay on track:
It is essential for older adults to stay active year-round. Colder weather can make it more difficult to exercise regularly. Add in all the extra tasks and events of the winter season, and staying physically active can get overlooked.
Cold weather may limit outdoor activities, but there are many ways to continue exercising indoors. Focus on routines that help you maintain mobility, strength and endurance. Consider light strength training, stretching and balance exercises you can do at home or in a community setting. Including movement in your daily routine can also help prevent stiffness and support heart health.
Group workouts can make staying active more fun. Participate in group activities such as walking laps around a decorated common area. During the colder weather, consider participating in themed workouts such as yoga sessions.
Physical fitness is one of the top priorities in WindsorMeade’s Pathways to Wellness program. We have a fully equipped fitness center with cutting-edge exercise equipment. Our group exercise classes bring residents together to get moving and support their overall health and wellness.
All the bustle of the winter season can make it challenging for seniors to get the appropriate amount of sleep and rest. A good night’s sleep can support immune function, mental clarity and physical health. Disruptions in your routine, increased social events and stress can make it harder to get quality rest, so it is important to focus on maintaining a consistent sleep schedule.
To improve sleep, create a calming bedtime routine with relaxing activities such as reading or listening to soothing music. Avoid large meals or caffeine late in the day, as these can interfere with sleep. If naps are necessary, keep them short to prevent disruption to nighttime rest. Prioritizing rest helps ensure you stay energized and healthy during the colder months.
Seeing your primary care doctor for regular checkups is vital to maintaining your health. Routine visits are especially important for older adults. Checkups enable your doctor to monitor any ongoing conditions you have, adjust medications as needed and provide preventive wellness services. These visits also give you the opportunity to discuss any new concerns you might have.
Be proactive in scheduling these appointments in the winter when the flu and other illnesses are more common. Early detection and management of health issues can help prevent complications for older adults. Staying connected with your healthcare provider is key to ensuring your overall well-being throughout the season. WindsorMeade also has preventive wellness services to help residents stay healthy year-round.
Staying on top of taking your medications is just as essential as keeping regular appointments with your doctor. When you are busy planning upcoming events or gatherings, your routine can become disrupted. It is easy to forget to take your prescriptions when this occurs. Place reminders on your calendar. Better yet, set recurring reminders on your smartphone or use a medication management app.
You also want to stay organized to ensure you have enough of your medications on hand. Set your prescriptions to auto-refill at your local pharmacy. Most pharmacies send text alerts when it is time to pick up a refill. Regularly review your prescriptions with your doctor or pharmacist to ensure they remain effective and safe. Managing your medications properly helps maintain health and prevent complications.
At WindsorMeade, we strive to support residents' health, happiness and wellness all 365 days of the year. For more information on taking care of your health during the winter or anytime, contact us today at 757 941 3615.
