Winter Wellness Tips for Seniors

​Winter means beautiful snow and chilly weather. While many of us enjoy all the joys of the winter season, it may cause setbacks on our overall personal health such as dealing with sickness, feeling the effects of seasonal depression, or not prioritizing your physical health due to being indoors more. 
 
The 8 Dimensions of Wellness are always a priority for our residents, so we’ve put together five tips to improve wellness all through winter and beyond, whether you call Melody Living home or not.

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​Stay active
Keeping up your exercise routine can be harder as the temperature decreases, especially if you enjoy going outdoors to exercise. Staying active through the colder months is important to maintain your physical health.
 
There are plenty of indoor workouts available that you can do in the comfort of your home. Some of our favorites are yoga, seated workouts, stretching, weights, and indoor walks. Melody Living’s state-of-the-art fitness room is well-equipped for residents of all capabilities with onsite fitness experts to assist residents in the use of fitness equipment as well as a variety of fitness classes.

​Get vaccinated
Chillier weather equates to the season of sickness. Our body’s immunity lowers as the temperature does, so it's best to protect ourselves in every way we can. Getting vaccinated can help protect you from the worst strains of the flu or even colds and help to keep you healthy all season long.
 
Did you know elderberries are filled with vitamins and antioxidants that can help to fight cold and flu symptoms? In addition to getting vaccinated, adding elderberries to your diet can help boost your immunity through a supplement such as elderberry syrup or vitamin gummies. There are also delicious teas available with this berry!

​Socializing and sunshine
A lack of vitamin D with an increase of melatonin is the main cause for seasonal depression. When the days get shorter and there is less sunshine, it can make us more agitated, tired, and depressed. Getting more vitamin D through a combination of natural light and supplements is the best way to combat seasonal depression along with socializing with friends and family.
 
Social wellness and emotional wellness go hand-in-hand when fighting seasonal depression. Luckily, Melody Living always has a wide array of activities for each resident to join including clubs, classes, and going on outings. 

Layer up
Ensuring you stay warm, even if you are inside, is important. As we age, our ability to regulate our body temperature and stay warm decreases, and the likelihood that you may develop hypothermia increases. Don't be afraid to turn up your thermostat and bundle up with warm blankets, fuzzy socks, and even plush robes. If you decide to venture out in the colder temperatures make sure you wear layers such as thermals, thick socks, gloves, a warm hat, and a good coat.
 
Stay hydrated
We all need to make sure we stay hydrated both inside and out. The winter and colder temperatures can cause dehydration, so this becomes increasingly important this season.
 
Keep up with drinking your recommended daily intake of fluids through water or hot tea if you want to warm up with a hot drink. Keeping your skin and body hydrated is just as important; continuously apply moisturizer each time you feel a bit dry and do the same for your lips and eyes by applying chapstick and using eye drops, as needed. There are plenty of daily planners or mobile phone apps that can help you or your loved one track and log their water intake to ensure they’re getting adequately hydrated each day.
 
Give us a call today to learn more about Melody Living’s 8 Dimensions of Wellness and to schedule a tour. To learn more about our assisted living community and memory care community, you can contact us at 847.957.7070.