Why Go Outside in the Cold?
In even the coldest months, getting outside can have some great health benefits and lift the spirit. Let’s look at some of the perks of heading out even when the temps are chilly.
One of the best ways the body gets much-needed Vitamin D is from the sun and many seniors are lacking in Vitamin D which is important to bone health. Just 10 minutes of sunlight can boost your loved one’s vitamin D levels and the best part about winter is that the sun’s rays are not as strong as summer so your loved one can enjoy some without fear of damaging her skin.
Fresh air is rejuvenating and gets your loved one out of the home with that stale, heated air. Just a few deep inhales on a crisp morning can lift the spirits.
Finally, many of the hazards you must work so hard to avoid in the summer – getting sunburned, overheating, and being eaten alive by mosquitos are non-existent in the winter. That said, every winter outing also has steps you need to take to keep your loved one safe.
Preparing Your Senior to Spend Some Time Outside in the Winter
For each summer danger, there is a counteractive winter danger that needs to be taken seriously before your loved one heads outside to enjoy some fresh air with her home care provider or other friends. Remember these tips when your senior heads out.
- Dress appropriately. Check those temps and don’t forget to look at wind chills as well so your senior is dressed appropriately in clothes that will keep her warm while also allowing proper movement.
- Reduce the risk of falling. Snow and ice can make any surface difficult to traverse safely. Have your senior wear boots with good tread and use assistive devices like canes or even railings to keep her from falling. An arm of her home care provider is one of the best ways to help her stay safe while walking over areas that may be slippery.
- Be alert to signs of frostbite or hypothermia and take immediate action if it occurs.
Five Fun Winter Outdoor Activities for Your Senior
While getting out is great for your senior and should be encouraged, you should also encourage her to always go out with a friend or a trusted home care provider so that if something does happen, she has someone who can help or get help immediately.
Keeping that in mind, here are five winter activities your loved one may enjoy with her home care provider.
- A stroll through a woods or garden. Natural areas take on a completely new beauty in the winter months with sparkly snow and icicles.
- Visit a winter market. Many towns have quaint winter markets where your loved one can browse through shops offering seasonal gifts and treats.
- Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. If your loved one is still physically active, she can try out a winter sport at a local park.
- Try a favorite hobby with a winter focus. It could be photography or bird watching. She might find a whole new way to love a favorite hobby.
- Play with the grandkids. Build a snowman, make snow angels, or have a snowball fight and enjoy those precious moments. Then come inside for some hot cocoa and cookies!
If you or an aging loved one is considering Home Care in Ridgefield, CT, please contact the caring staff at Elderly Caregivers LLC. today at (203) 628-7438
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