Winter Health and Safety

Winter can be a challenging time to get out and about. Here are four tips that might help.

First, it’s important that older adults maintain physical activity indoors. Activities can include yoga, stretching, or even walking in place during commercial breaks while watching TV.

Second, avoid prolonged exposure to extreme cold. When you have to go out, dress in layers. Wear warm socks and insulated boots with a non-slip tread, and don’t forget to wear a hat, scarf and mittens.

Third, avoid strenuous outdoor activity like snow shoveling that increases the risk of heart attack for people with heart disease or other conditions.

And fourth, spend time with family and friends or talk with them by phone to avoid social isolation and depression.

Additional Winter Health & Safety Tips

  • Winter sun can be very strong and bright. Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater, and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
  • Consult with your doctor to develop a plan for maintaining indoor physical activity. This will help maintain:
        * Muscle and bone strength
        * Quality of life
        * Physical and mental health
        * Energy
        * Good balance and posture
        * Reduced stress
  • When bad weather is approaching, make sure you have an adequate supply of medication on hand. If you run out of medication and the weather is bad, ask your pharmacy if they deliver, or ask a family member, friend or neighbor for help getting your prescription picked up.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather
        * Warm socks and insulated boots with a non-slip tread
         * Dress in layers, but avoid wearing cotton next to your skin because it will absorb sweat and stay wet. 
         * Wear a hat, scarf and mittens 
  • If walking outdoors, bring a friend; and if walking outdoors at night, add reflective tape to your clothing. Always let someone else know where you are going.
  • If walking outdoors isn’t an option, consider traveling to a mall and walking indoors or even walk in place during commercial breaks when you’re home watching television.
  • If roads or walkways have not been treated and cleared, ask friends or relatives for help with errands or grocery shopping.
  • Strenuous outdoor activity like snow shoveling should be avoided. Cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, and this can increase the risk of heart attack.
  • Keep your home thermostat above 65 degrees, and dress in layers indoors to maintain body temperature. 
  • Spend time with family and friends or talk with them by phone to avoid social isolation and depression.

Learn more about Asbury Heights by requesting information or arranging a tour.