Fall will be here before we know it, along with shorter days and cooler temperatures. As we leave summer and prepare for the changing season ahead, it’s time to discuss safety and wellness in older adults.
Just like summer, autumn comes with changes that can affect people. These safety and wellness tips are here to help you and your loved ones adjust. Unlike summer, we won’t have to consider 100+ degree heat!
Staying Well During Cold and Flu Season
First, let’s talk about cold and flu season. As the temperature drops and people see their loved ones for the holidays, germs are bound to spread. Luckily, there are ways to keep you healthy during this time!
- Wash your hands & use hand sanitizer
- Keep your distance from loved ones who are sick
- Load up on Zinc, Vitamin C, and remember to drink lots of water
- Make sure you’re getting lots of restful sleep
- Get your flu shot
Avoid Slips and Falls
While we may not have snow, we do have the occasional rainstorm. Avoid walking in the rain during or after a storm when the ground is still wet, as this can lead to falls. It's best just to sit inside with a good book and enjoy the rain from a warm place.
Eat Healthy, Seasonal Foods
Don't forget to take advantage of the harvest! With fall comes seasonal produce like beets, brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and more. So many root vegetables and leafy greens have minerals and nutrients that fuel your body; furthermore, they're also great for your immune system. Remember, the more color that's on your plate, the better!
Maintain HVAC and Fireplaces
Before you crank on the heat, check out your heating systems first. That's one of the great things about living in a retirement community like Ponté Palmero, there's always someone onsite to help! We can make sure your heat and fireplace (if you have one) are ready to go and safe to use.
Seek Help for Seasonal Depression
Finally, it's not uncommon to experience seasonal depression, as the days get shorter. If you've experienced it in the past, talk to your doctor and have a gameplan. It will help to take more Vitamin D, after consulting your doctor. And you can even get a sun lamp to help combat those feelings. Most importantly, ensure you have a community you feel safe talking about this with who can provide resources and support.
These are only a few things to keep in mind as we move into autumn. There is so much to look forward to in the coming season, from Halloween to Thanksgiving. And of course, who could forget the beautiful foliage we're able to experience just outside our doors?
So, bring on autumn! We’re ready.