Checklist for Seniors to Stay Healthy this Winter

Winter is almost here and, as always, it will bring some unique health challenges in terms of winter health care for seniors. During the fall and winter months, people spend more time indoors together leading to the spread of many different viruses and other illnesses. For senior adults, even common ailments can have serious repercussions. What’s the best way to stay healthy this winter? Be proactive and follow some winter health tips. Here, we offer a helpful checklist for you to follow.

Checklist for seniors to stay healthy this winter

  • Eat Foods that Boost Immunity
  • Get a Checkup
  • Exercise Regularly
  • Stay Connected to People
  • Take in Some Vitamin D

Now that you have a list for reference, let’s dig a little deeper into these winter tips for seniors.

  • A healthy diet can promote immunity. Let’s face it: winter is a time when most of us eat more sugary, fatty foods. It’s cold out, and there’s something comforting about getting cozy on the couch with a pumpkin muffin, a piece of pie, or some holiday cookies! However, while it’s okay to have sweet treats in moderation, it’s important to maintain a healthy balance and a nutrient-dense diet. Eat plenty of foods that contain vitamins A, C, E, and D, antioxidants, probiotics, and minerals like calcium and zinc. Think about making your meals colorful with different vegetables and you’ll be doing your immune system a favor.
  • Preventive care is crucial to good health. This one is tricky because of the COVID-19 pandemic. On the one hand, protecting your health is more important than ever. On the other hand, going to the doctor can make people anxious about exposure to germs and diseases. If you’re nervous, talk to your doctor about contactless care but don’t skip out on your annual exam. Virtual appointments via Zoom or on a smart phone are a good option as well.
  • Staying active boosts your immune system. This can be hard in the winter, so look for ways to stay active like taking a walk on a nice day, doing yoga in your living room, or participating in a socially distanced exercise class.
  • Social interaction helps ward off winter depression. Socialization has been disrupted because of the pandemic, but you can still find ways to connect. Stay in touch with family and friends over the phone or online and take part in socially distanced meetups with friends and neighbors.
  • Sunlight provides vitamin D, an important nutrient for health. Try to get fresh air and sunshine every day, even when it’s cold outside. If you’re finding this difficult, talk to your doctor about a vitamin D supplement.

If you’re looking for a retirement community that values the health and wellness of its residents, come take a tour of a Cambridge Village community. At each Cambridge Village location, you can experience all the reasons we’re considered North Carolina’s premier Optimal Living® community for active adults. We offer an exceptional lifestyle with evolving wellness, concierge healthcare, and engaged experiences for a retirement lifestyle that exceeds your expectations. For more information, contact us through our website.