When the temperature drops, the elderly are more susceptible to weather-related illnesses and injuries, including hypothermia. Body temperature drops in cold weather, and the body regulates to adapt to the new environment. Your seniors may have a healthy, boosted winter by taking a few simple precautions during the season with minimal effort. Here are a few steps to take better care of your loved ones.
Keep the Home Warm
Make sure that your elder’s home is warm and well-insulated. Keep the thermostat set to a comfortable temperature, and consider using draft stoppers to keep cold air out. Additionally, in cold climates, older adults can quickly develop hypothermia. It is a significant drop in body temperature. Older adults develop this illness because of how poorly adapted their bodies are to prolonged exposure to low temperatures. Additionally, the rooms in your home can also be kept warm and damp with the aid of small home humidifiers. Ensuring the house stays warm for the seniors is an important way to take good care of them.
Ensure They Stay Hydrated
It is normal to have less thirst in the winter than in the rest of the year. Less humidity in the weather might cause the body to lose water because of the dryness. Thus, dehydration can be a problem in the winter. Encouraging your seniors to drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, to stay hydrated can be crucial. Ensure your loved ones continue to drink a lot of water.
Keen Them Active
Exercise in any form can help your seniors get their heart rate up, control their blood flow, and avoid the winter blues and pain. Sweating as a result of exercise helps the body remove toxins and maintain good skin. Encourage your elder to stay active by taking short walks, doing gentle stretches, or participating in activities they enjoy. Staying active can help improve circulation, which can prevent colds and other illnesses.
Pamper Their Skin
Elderly individuals frequently neglect skin maintenance. Older adults require more skincare than usual due to the dryness and itchiness of the skin throughout the winter. One of the risks of winter is damaged skin. Cold symptoms include chapped lips, cracked heels, and dry, itchy skin. Moisturizing, using sunscreen, and drinking more water are essential winter skincare practices. Before heading outside, ensure they apply sunscreen. This way, they can get some fresh air without damaging their skin.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
The immune system functions better when one consumes a balanced diet full of whole grains, lean meats, fish, poultry, legumes, nuts, seeds, and fresh fruits and vegetables. You can also increase a senior’s intake of foods high in vitamin C to support their health and enhance their immune system. Older individuals must ensure they get the vital nutrients their systems require to fight against diseases. Balanced foods are best. Ensure they eat lots of whole grain foods, dried fruits, and fruits and veggies.
We ensure that your seniors are cared for at Cherokee Angel Senior Care and Training Center. Our skilled personnel looks after their needs and takes care of their health with utmost responsibility. Enquire today to learn more about our services.