As the days grow shorter and temperatures begin to drop, winter is just around the corner. For seniors, preparing for the winter months is essential to ensure safety, comfort, and well-being. Here are some practical steps seniors can take to get ready for the colder season.
Another thing we can do is winterize our homes. This can include heating system check, insulation and drafts, and emergency supplies. A heating system check can include having an inspection and ensure that your furnace is working efficiently. Also replace any filters that are schedules to be replaced. To reduce heating costs eliminate drafts and double check your insulation. Check your windows and doors for drafts. Use weather stripping or caulk to seal any gaps, and consider using thermal curtains to keep the warmth in.
This winter season ensure you are prepared by stocking up on emergency supplies. Essential supplies like blankets, flashlights, batteries, and first aid kits. Also ensure you have a supply of non-perishable food and water in case you are unable to make it to the store due to cold, ice, or snow.
It is important to think about your health this winter as well. To remain healthy and enjoy a positive mood get regular exercise. You can engage in indoor exercises like yoga, stretching, jogging, weight lifting, and light aerobics to maintain muscle mass and flexibility. Remain mindful this winter season by practicing meditation and breathing exercises for a sense of well being and to combat negative emotions. Getting vaccinated is a good idea to prevent the flue, pneumonia, and Covid. Eat healthy foods including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Certain foods can boost the immune system and maintain our health. Don't forget to talk to your family and friends. Regularly check-in with loved ones and connect to brush-off feelings of isolation that can arise during the winter months. You can also partake in activities this winter by investigating your local senior center for activities to engage in.
During the winter months it can be difficult to get around so plan ahead. Think about how you're getting around and where you need to go. There are transportation alternatives if you have difficulties driving. Transportation like local public transit, rideshare services, or community programs can serve as alternatives to using your car this winter. If you do plan on using your care ensure your vehicle is winter-ready by replacing your battery, tires, anti freeze, windshield wiper fluid, and your emergency kit.
Finally, safety first. Prevent falls and ensure you have a emergency plan. Falls can have a number of consequences including broken bones, muscle tears, wounds, bruising, and emotional trauma that can its own consequences. To prevent falls this winter invest in non slip footwear and consider using a cane or walker to maintain balance. Ensure all walkways are clear of snow and ice, and use salt to melt all ice from your path. Also have an emergency plan prepared. Emergency plans can include how to contact family or neighbors. Know who you can contact by keeping a list of individuals you can call like family, friends, a handy man, emergency help, snow clearing help, and others. If you think you need help with your day please enter you information on the home page to be connected with an agency near you.