It may not be feeling chilly yet, but it’s never too late for seniors to start preparing for fall and winter risks, from decreased immunity for cold and flu season, to increased danger for falls. That’s because the colder seasons can be challenging for older adults due to age-related changes such as weaker muscles, slower reflexes, reduced mobility, and lower vision, which can make icy sidewalks and chilly days harder to navigate.Here at Provision Living, our helpful team members and supportive, nurturing community will help ensure you or your loved one has peace of mind in every season. For a bit of seasonal advice, we’ve compiled this list of fall wellness tips for staying safe, warm, and healthy even as the mercury drops!
1. Layer up
In fall and winter, dressing in layered clothing is a smart strategy for staying comfortable and safe. Start with long underwear and add a warm sweater, and if you’re going outside, be sure to put on an insulated jacket and a hat, scarf, and gloves to protect vulnerable areas.
2. Fall-proof your home
Falls are an obvious danger outside during fall and winter, but seniors should also be sure to take steps to prevent falls indoors: walk slowly with short steps, use handrails whenever they’re available, keep your floors clear, and always wear sturdy shoes.
3.Guard your vision
Remember to get your vision checked regularly and always keep an extra pair of glasses on hand, just in case. Make sure your walkways are well lit to help avoid hazards both indoors and out.
4. Stay warm inside and out
Keep your home at a safe temperature, typically around 68 to 70°F. Make sure to close off any unused rooms and keep blankets handy. Be sure to have your furnace and heater maintained to be ready for use when temperatures start to drop.
5. Get regular exercise
Exercise helps support balance, flexibility, and muscle strength, especially in colder months, so engaging in safe indoor exercises like stretching, yoga, or light aerobics can help you stay fit when outdoor activities are limited.
6. Keep walkways clear
As far as fall and winter safety tips, seniors should avoid shoveling snow, especially if you have a heart condition, as the strain can put added stress on your heart. Instead keep walkways clear of snow and ice with help from a neighbor, family, or trusted service, using salt, sand, or mats to improve traction near doorways.
Keep an emergency kit handy with blankets, flashlights, batteries, water, and non-perishable food in case of storms or power outages. When it comes to cold and flu season tips, always keep a full supply of medications available so you’ll be covered if weather prevents a trip to the pharmacy or doctor’s office.
9. Stay connected
Staying socially connected is important for wellness and to reduce isolation, but also for staying physically safe! Keep in touch with family, neighbors, or caregivers by phone, video call, or in person, so that someone can come quickly if a problem arises.
Staying Safe and Healthy This Fall
At Provision Living communities, we believe in promoting peace of mind all year-round, so, if you’re exploring senior living for yourself or a loved one, you count on our team to help you figure out the right next steps.We hope you enjoyed these fall wellness tips! For more senior health and wellness tips and to learn more about our communities, download our brochure, chat with one of our friendly advisors, or schedule a visit today. We’ll be here to help you or your loved one find comfort, confidence, and peace of mind this fall, winter, and beyond!
