Staying Safe This Winter 

 
Winter is here and along with it, the colder weather! The coldest season of the year can impose several risks for your aging loved ones. We all know winter is long in Canada, but with these few simple steps you can make sure that the senior in your life has a safe, warm, healthy, and happy winter. 

• Encourage physical exercise -Many facilities, such as the YMCA offer a variety of wellness opportunities for aging adults. These fun and active classes are an opportunity to keep seniors moving during the season. If a class is not something they are interested in, try to go out with them a few times a week, whether it is a trip to the shopping mall or walking an indoor track together. You can spend quality time with them and keep them moving!

• Hydration -Making sure your loved one is drinking plenty of fluids during the winter is imperative to their overall health. Remember the recommended serving is 8-10 glasses a day! 

• Insulation - Take the time to make sure your elderly loved one’s home is properly insulated. It will not only keep them warm, but can also save them money from air leaks and prevent them from under heating their homes.

• Diet & Nutrition - Make family meals a chance to add in healthy substitutions, along with vitamins and nutrients that are key to senior health, such as Vitamin D, which we get less of in the winter!

Remember, seniors are especially vulnerable to the harsh weather, and taking precautions during these winter months is vital in keeping them safe and healthy this season!