Staying Healthy this Winter

Cold Canadian winters are a time when the general population is more susceptible to colds and the flu. It may seem harmless for the younger population, but catching the flu is a much more serious ordeal for seniors. We decided to put together a post to offer some tips for seniors to stay healthy and happy as these colder temperatures continue.  Keep in mind that these ideas are just to get you started and if you have more specific questions that need to be answered regarding flu prevention/treatment, its a good idea to take this up with your doctor or other medical professional.

Get your flu shot

Regardless of how you may feel about needles, chances are you’ll like the flu even less. Especially for seniors who live in senior living communities where they come into contact with dozens of people every day, taking this early and important measure to guard against illness is essential.

Keep it clean

Winter means illness, and, by extension, germs. Staying clean is essential. Whether you’re scrubbing after you sneeze, washing up before a meal or simply washing your hands as a regular part of your day, keeping your hands clean and free of germs can go a long way toward remaining healthy. We often underestimate just how many common surfaces in our homes germs can find to roost, so frequent hand washing doesn’t always get the attention it deserves. A good hand sanitizers is a purchase that can go a long way so make sure to keep a bottle on hand.

Soak Up Your Vitamin D

The lower temperatures mean more than just ice and snow. For many Americans, it can lead to an increase in depression and anxiety as well. The shorter days and dipping mercury can leave many, especially seniors, feeling increasingly down and depressed. If you notice your senior loved one is spending more time sleeping than usual, is losing interest in activities or is increasingly irritable, it may be Seasonal Affective Disorder. Fortunately, it’s a condition that can be managed fairly easily. Some people use sun lamps – special lights that give off UV rays made to simulate sunlight and give your body a boost of solar vitamin D. Other options are to make sure you stay connected with friends and family via phone, email and in person.

Dress warmly

Even if you’re not spending much time outside this winter, it’s important to make sure you dress for the cold. Hypothermia doesn’t require being stuck in a snow drift. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that seniors can account for around 50 percent of all hypothermia-related deaths. Even indoors, dress in layers and keep blankets handy as a quick way of adding extra warmth if it’s required. Slippers or wool socks can be a senior’s best friend in the winter months. If you do plan on venturing outside, bundling up is essential. A scarf, hat, gloves and a heavy coat should be worn to make sure that no skin is left exposed to the cold air.