Staying Healthy During the Winter

How to Stay Well this Winter

The winter months can be challenging – especially when it comes to maintaining our health and well-being. A popular term in Minnesota at this time of year is “hunker down” – some examples:

• To avoid the cold, we should hunker down by the fireplace.
• I will hunker down with a good book on this snowy day.
• We’ll hunker down until the snowstorm (winter?) passes.

Sound familiar? I know I’m often tempted to do just that! However, it is not always practical or possible and really isn’t healthy. Getting out, socializing and enjoying some fresh air is good for the mind and soul. For us aging adults, there are ways to not only “survive” these months but to safely enjoy them as well.

Stay Active

Plan time for exercise or moving – you can walk around a mall or go to your local senior centers or area churches for classes like Sit and Be Fit or light yoga. Of course, when heading outdoors be aware of the temperature so you can dress accordingly (layers are ideal) and look for any ice that may have formed on the steps, sidewalks or driveways. Parking lots can also be a hazard – consider using a cane or walker for extra support.

If you live in a senior living community, try walking throughout the building (no winter elements to contend with) or participate in the wellness classes most communities offer.

Nutrition

It’s important to have a balanced regimen when it comes to eating. “Comfort foods” definitely have their place but incorporating them into a healthy diet can insure you are able to maintain your energy levels as well as provide your body with needed nutrients.

Hydration

It is so easy to think of hydration as a summer thing, but your body needs proper hydration all year round, especially for older adults. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout each day.

Stay Healthy

Being around large groups of people during these colder months is hard to avoid. Church, funerals, malls, family gatherings, events or other social gatherings can be challenging. Here’s a couple of things you can do to lessen the chance of becoming ill.

• Wash your hands thoroughly using soap and water and avoid touching your eyes or mouth until you can do that. Surfaces you may not even think of such as escalator handrails, playing cards or puzzles are often touched by many people.
• If you are not feeling well or know someone else who is sick, avoid contact. What can be a mild cold for one person can turn into something more serious for another. It’s best to err on the side of caution.

Vaccinations

There are vaccinations available for some communicable diseases:

• COVID-19
• Flu
• Pneumonia
• RSV

Consult your doctor to learn about their specific recommendations for you. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for the Noro Virus (stomach-like flu). It is spread by contaminated food, water and surfaces. Again, washing your hands, avoiding touching eyes or mouth is the best deterrent.

By simply taking a few extra precautions during these colder months, it is possible to not only stay safe and healthy, but to enjoy our Minnesota winter!