Winter approaches, the temperature dips further and air quality worsens, making most of us not wanting to step out of the warm cozy confines of our homes. Going out for walks or moving around the house may seem like a chore during these months. Even if you do not step out of your house, moving around and taking care of yourself is important.
As you age, winter as a season becomes synonymous with ailments ranging from chest congestions to breathing troubles. While most people may suffer one or more ailments during the cold season, yet there are three major ailments – mobility, joint pain, skin conditions — that affect almost every elderly at some point or the other during cold climatic conditions. However, with some good care and exercises most of these three common issues can be tackled. But, if the condition persists longer, visit a physician.
Mobility Issues
Mobility keeps us independent and confident, a key part of active ageing. Mobility is essential to get through the day – be it going out for a walk or from your bedroom to the washroom. It’s not uncommon for elderly to have trouble getting up from chair or moving around the house. If you suffer from arthritis then winter aggravates the problem. The overall strength takes a beating and simple chores around the house may seem tough to handle. To improve balance and mobility issues, do strength training at home. Walk around for short duration of intervals. If you are unable to walk around without help then take aid of mobility solutions. There are many mobility products available in the market that allows the elderly to get out, travel without hindrance and enjoy life.
Winter Pains & Aches
During the winter our joints become stiff, especially when they remain immobile for a long period of time. According to studies, during cold months, our body tries to conserve heat by sending more blood to organs such as the heart, lungs and digestive organs. As a result, knees, arms, shoulders, legs and other joints have less blood, which make the blood vessels at the joints constrict. Less blood flow makes those areas stiffer and leads to pain and aches. Keep yourselves active, move around every hour and dress in layers to regulate temperature inside. Do stretching exercises for your knees, shoulders and other joints.
Skin Problems
Dry, itchy and flaky skin is a common condition during cold months. The dry weather saps out the natural oil from our body and leaves it devoid of any moisture. Frequent hand-washing and sanitising also leads to dryness. Dry skin may also be a side effect of some medications or a symptom of certain diseases. Avoid using harsh chemicals and soaps. Moisturise your skin at regular intervals and keep yourselves hydrated. Nourish your skin by eating healthy greens. Have green tea twice a day if sipping warm water is tedious.