As the official start to winter approaches, we’re reminded that it’s often a difficult time for seniors. The shorter days and lack of sunlight can lead to seasonal depression, a fear of isolation may increase when it’s unsafe for visitors to travel on icy roads and sidewalks, and the increased presence of seasonal viruses has the potential to cause serious illness. While there are many good things about winter, these concerns are valid and should be addressed before they create a problem. Here are three tips to help keep seniors healthy and active this winter. If you have any questions, please contact us!
Ensure that their immunizations up to date—and yours, too
To avoid severe outcomes from common viruses like influenza, COVID-19 or RSV—a childhood illness that is circulating in higher numbers this season—ensure that your aging loved ones receive a flu shot and get their COVID-19 boosters as soon as possible. They should also speak to their family doctor about getting the pneumonia vaccine and/or shingles immunization if appropriate.
Furthermore, you can help protect the seniors in your life (and your entire community) through your own actions. This means staying home when sick, wearing a mask if you have been exposed to anyone with an illness (or simply if your exposure risk is high), and getting a Covid booster and flu shot as soon as possible. Taking these steps together can help make communities and families healthier.
Clean out your medicine cabinet
Set aside half an hour to clean out your medicine cabinet—it’s a fast and easy way to support good health this winter season. Get rid of any old, expired drugs (prescription or over-the-counter) and make a list of what’s missing so you can stock up on things you may need. This may include painkillers and/or fever reducers, cold and cough medication, topical ointments for pain and antibacterial cream to treat scrapes or small cuts. You may also want to stock up on electrolyte drinks (sugar-free Gatorade, for example) in case someone in the household falls ill and needs to rehydrate. For personalized recommendations on how to stock your medicine cabinet, speak to your family doctor or pharmacist!
Eat well and stay active
We’ve already blogged about eating well to support good health, but it’s also important to move your body. To avoid the negative effects of a sedentary winter lifestyle, help your aging loved ones stay active—even indoors. This may involve gentle stretching, chair yoga, tai chi exercises or simply walking in a safe space. If your aging relative lives in an apartment or condominium, common areas and hallways are a great space for stretching your legs and walking indoors. Our caregivers can accompany seniors on safe, gentle walks or help them with simple exercises in the home. To learn more about this and other personal care services, please contact us! We’re pleased to offer skilled, compassionate in-home PSW care to clients in and around Toronto. Thanks for reading, and have a safe, healthy winter!