Staying healthy over winter is a priority for most people and as we age, we often think we know it all. Yet, it is easy to forget those important steps to help remain active, alert, and free of seasonal illnesses. What’s more, it may be spring but winter may not be done with us so, here are a few tips worth remembering:
Regular sleep
It’s easy to form poor routines and bad habits such as staying up late to watch an overseas rugby game on TV or reading through the early hours to combat a bit of insomnia.
A variety of issues, including some medications, can impact on sleep yet, seniors still need good quality sleep to help promote general health, healing after illness and improved concentration.
It pays to investigate the right pathway for you which may include relying on extra help from natural sleep products to see you through the night.
Maintain a well-balanced diet
Some seniors have spent a lifetime skipping breakfast. Perhaps, it’s time to reverse the habit. A sensible breakfast (even if it’s a little later in the morning) will likely stand you in good stead while balanced eating throughout the day should include protein, fresh fruits, and veggies.
Exercise
Regular activity increases the circulation of antibodies and white blood cells which fight infection. For seniors, exercise is often about good balance (thus avoiding falls), reducing stress, easing stiffness and keeping the body fight fit to ward off ills.
Hand washing
There nothing like teaching an old dog, old tricks such as HAND WASHING!
Although washing hands, especially before handling food or eating, is an obvious way to maintain good health, we can forget or let this important habit slide especially when returning from the supermarket (or other shopping) where it’s possible to touch many items handled by others (including the ATM screen).
Bacteria and infection are easily transmitted making clean hands important. Also, remember to wipe down frequently touched items such as the phone, computer keyboard, door handles, light switches, steering wheel and more. They can get very grimy.
Check if you need Vitamin D
Low Vitamin D can contribute to the winter blues. Our bodies naturally make Vitamin D in the sunshine however, some parts of the country see little sun in winter and people are more inclined to remain indoors. A vitamin boost may be required to ease fatigue and low mood.
Drink water regularly
Hydration supports the body’s ability to fight off infection. Dehydration can be caused by fevers, salty diets, and caffeine. Keep a water bottle handy and sip on it throughout the day.
Remember if feeling unwell with cold or flu-like symptoms, test for Covid, stay home, keep warm, drink fluids and check with your doctor if symptoms persist.