Author – SALT Member – Fiona Somerville, Acquaint
It’s mid June and Winter is most definitely here! Depending on where you are in Australia, Winter can bring cosy nights by the fire, crisp walks through frost-covered parks and warm drinks shared with loved ones. But along with the charm of the season come shorter days, chilly weather and the inevitable colds and flu.
So how do you stay safe, warm and well this winter?
Winter health tips for seniors
A healthy winter starts with a few simple habits:
Stay warm: Layer up with cosy clothing, non-slip slippers and a warm home environment.
Eat well: Support your immune system with nourishing meals full of fruit, vegetables and whole grains — with the occasional scone, naturally.
Keep moving: Gentle exercise like walking, chair yoga or light resistance training can help maintain strength, mobility and mood during winter.
Stay hydrated: Heaters and endless cups of tea can lead to dehydration.
Prioritise your health: Winter is the perfect time to stay on top of check-ups and vaccinations.
Winter safety for seniors
Cold weather can create extra hazards, so care needs to be taken when:
- Navigating slippery footpaths and icy conditions
- Heading out to do the shopping and errands
Staying socially connected
Winter shouldn’t mean missing out on the things you love. Whether it’s a cards night, coffee outing or family gathering, it’s important to stay connected.
Keep connected through:
- Indoor hobbies like reading, puzzles, crafts and games
- Visits with family and friends
- Video calls and online catch-ups with loved ones far away
Winter activities for seniors
Winter can still be full of adventure and enjoyment:
- Visit exhibitions
- Reminisce over photo albums and home movies
- Join online book clubs or lectures
- Escape for a cosy winter getaway
Need help to do these things in warmth, comfort and with confidence?
If you want to keep living life your way this season but need a little help to do that, it’s important to know that there’s qualified support available – not just with in home care, but also wtih support on outings, attending appointments and more.
If you’re in Melbourne for example, the beautiful team at Acquaint can provide tailored in-home care services that go beyond traditional support. Not in Melbourne? No problem, contact the team at SALT to find help close to you.
So stay warm, well, active and connected this Winter – knowing there’s access to support if you need it, provided with care, compassion and empathy.
