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Tips and information to help seniors stay active during a time of year becoming sedentary is all too easy:
Have you found you feel low now the darker nights have crept in? Does summer seem like a distant memory? Has the cold made you feel like you want to hibernate until it gets warm again?
You’re not alone, but it is so important that you stay active and healthy this winter. Losing your health in later life can limit your activities and in the worst case scenario, unfortunately lead to it never being regained again. Maintaining your strength and mobility protects you against issues like falls.
Fall-related injuries are a real problem for the elderly. Hip fractures for example, are a significant risk to older people. According to a live-in care study, a month after the fracture 1 in 12 people pass away and only 6 of 12 will return home again.
There is no need to allow your health to decline this winter. It might be slightly more challenging staying active this winter, but it is so important that you do, for long-term health and vitality.
Here are some useful tips to help you stay active this winter:
Make More Effort To Stay Social
Of course we all hibernate a little and there aren’t the late light nights and warm summer evenings available to accommodate as many social gatherings as there were a few months ago. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t the opportunity to see people. You might have to put yourself out there a little more.
You may need to try out new indoor hobby groups such as book clubs or swimming groups. The more motivation you have to get out and socialise, the better your overall health will be.
Layer-up
If you get a coat you know keeps even the coldest winds out, or some fleece-lined boots that hold you steady in the snow, you’ll feel much more able to get out and about. Warm clothing for outdoors keeps you safe and comfortable, so going for a walk is much more possible.
Do Consider Proper Workouts
If you do still have the ability to workout properly, then you definitely should. No need for marathons of course, but an exercise video at home, classes created for people your age like senior Zumba, or even weight lifting (guided by a professional). It can be a great way to socialise and stay healthy.
Keep Up Hourly Activity
Even if you don’t want to go to an exercise class or go for a walk, simply moving a little every hour is good for you. 250 steps every hour is a really good goal to have. Set a timer and get up every hour and perhaps make a herbal tea or, go for a potter around the garden. It will get your blood flowing and will help keep you active at a basic level.
Get Some Support
If you have found that you are struggling to stay active, and to cope with day to day tasks at home, it could be a good time to look into care. Residential homes are available but there are options before that where you can stay in your own home. Assisted living facilities enable you to remain independent but with support on hand.
Home care services enable you to stay in your own home and have a visiting carer or live-in care enables you to stay in your own home with a trained carer who lives with you for extra support and reassurance. Live-in care can also be compared favourably to residential care in some instances.
Staying active in winter is really important. With the right help, support and motivation, you can stay fit and well throughout the year. Just be sure to reach out for help if you need it. There are lots of facilities available for you to maintain your independence, the first step is reaching out and asking about them.