7 Tips to Help Seniors Stay Healthier This Fall and Winter

Fall and winter are the coziest times of the year — family gatherings around the fireplace, holiday decorations and baking seasonal treats all come to mind. There’s much to enjoy, and these months are even better when you’re feeling healthy so you can relish all they have to offer.

As we look forward to fall festivals, Halloween spooks, Thanksgiving dinners and happy holidays, there are some actions you can take to help keep your health and wellness as merry as your spirit.

1. Eat Well: It’s tempting to reach for comfort foods and sweet treats during the cooler months, but balance all those goodies with a nutritious diet that’s rich in vitamins (A,C,E,D), minerals (zinc), antioxidants and probiotics. Try to eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and proteins, along with any supplements to the extent recommended by your doctor.
   
   
2. Stay Warm: Older adults can lose body heat at a quicker rate than a young adult, according to the National Institute on Aging. Keep the temperature inside your home between 68-70 degrees. Wear loose layers (socks, jackets, scarves and hats) when you go outside. When you rest, sleep in pajamas and cozy socks to stay warm while you snooze.
   
   
3. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands regularly (and use hand sanitizer) and clean surfaces frequently or bring disposable antibacterial wipes in public places like grocery stores to keep germs at bay. Become an expert hand-washer using Mayo Clinic’s best practices.
   
   
4. Use Preventative Care: Stay up-to-date on routine doctor’s visits such as annual exams, if possible. COVID-19 has impacted in-person appointments, but you can talk to your doctor about virtual visits and striking the right balance between virus prevention and maintaining your health. This way, you and your doctor can be proactive. This is especially helpful going into the winter months when snow and ice can also potentially make it difficult to see your doctor.
   
   
5. Stay Social: Is your evening out actually good for your physical health? You bet. Social isolation may reduce the effectiveness of your body’s immune system, which could make it easier for you to get sick. Even if we’re still implementing social distancing in the cooler seasons, you can plan virtual activities to stay connected to loved ones while you’re bundled up indoors.
   
   
6. Remember Skincare: Sun protection isn’t just for summertime. Harmful UV rays can cause skin damage, even on dreary, cloudy winter days. Whether you’re out in a winter wonderland — where snow can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s rays — or simply taking a walk on a cool day, it’s better to play it safe by lathering up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen that’s SPF 15 or higher.
   
   
7. Continue COVID-19 Precautions: Prepare to take COVID-19 precautions into the fall and winter months. Social distance by staying at least 6 feet away from others, and wear masks when you’re in public or around people from outside of your household. For more information on how to protect yourself or what to do if you’re feeling sick, visit CDC.gov.

If you have any questions about how you or a loved one can stay healthy in the upcoming seasons, reach out to a Brookdale Senior Living associate today.