Winter Wellness: Ensuring Proper Senior Care in Harrisburg, PA

Winter can be especially tough on seniors. Older adults are prone to cold weather illnesses like colds and flu. They are also at high risk for slip and fall accidents. You can keep your loved one safer with the proper senior care in Harrisburg, PA. Our professional caregivers will ensure your aging relative stays healthy in the cold winter months. Here are some things to be aware of.

Get Vaccinated

Older adults tend to have weakened immune systems. They are prone to colds and flu. These conditions can lead to pneumonia and other complications. Seniors will reduce flu risk by getting vaccinated.

Consider getting your loved one the COVID-19 vaccine while they get their flu shots.

Exercise Indoors

It’s not wise to take seniors out on extremely cold days. But they should still get a fair amount of physical activity. Fortunately, there are several indoor senior-friendly workouts. They include:

• Yoga: Simple yoga positions can be done indoors. People with limited mobility may consider chair yoga.
• Stretching: Stretching is essential for seniors because it relieves achiness and makes the body more flexible.
• Weightlifting: Weightlifting helps seniors maintain muscle mass. Bicep curls and other basic exercises can be performed in an indoor space.

Sunshine Exposure is Essential

Many older adults stay indoors during the winter. But the vitamin D in sunshine is essential in boosting the immune system. Ensure your loved one gets the proper amount of vitamin D by taking them outdoors for a few minutes daily. You can also sit them inside in a sunny room for at least 30 minutes.

Encourage Socialization

Seniors don’t go out as much during the winter. But they must stay in touch with friends. Socialization will reduce depression and anxiety many seniors suffer due to isolation and failing health.

Teach your loved one to use social media and video conferencing so they can contact their friends during the winter.

Wear Layers Indoors

Older adults are prone to hypothermia. The condition may occur if their body temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Hypothermia can even happen indoors. Provide seniors with layers of clothing so they stay warm. Doing so will also bolster their immune system.

Clear Walkways

The cold weather presents slipping hazards. Storms bring snow, ice, and slippery leaves. Seniors are prone to falling due to balance issues caused by the loss of muscle mass, medications, and other factors.

Reduce slipping hazards by ensuring walkways are clear of snow, ice, and slippery leaves.

AmeriBest is The Top Provider of Senior Care in Harrisburg, PA

Keep your senior healthy during the winter by choosing the proper senior care in Harrisburg, PA. AmeriBest offers various non-medical home care options. We provide meal preparation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, transportation assistance, and much more.

We also ease the financial burden of hiring a caregiver by providing opportunities to get paid for taking care of a family member. Those who apply are eligible for competitive pay, benefits, and ongoing training. We can help you grow your career. Contact us to find out about our home care services in Harrisburg, PA.