Winter Wellness Tips for Seniors

​While many of us love the winter season and all the beautiful snow it brings, winter is a time of year that often sets us back on our overall personal health. Whether it’s getting sick, feeling the effects of seasonal depression, or putting your physical health on the back burner.
 
The 8 Dimensions of Wellness are a priority for Melody Living and our residents, so we’ve put together five tips to improve wellness all through winter and beyond.

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​Get vaccinated
There’s no doubt that winter is the season for sickness. Whether it’s the common cold plaguing you, or the flu; getting vaccinated can help protect you from the worst of these strains and keep you healthy all season long.
 
In addition to getting vaccinated, a good way to help boost your immunity is to include elderberries in your diet through a supplement such as elderberry syrup or vitamin gummies.
 
Elderberries are filled with vitamins and antioxidants that can help to fight cold and flu symptoms. There are also delicious teas available with this berry!
 

​Stay active
It can be difficult to keep up your exercise routine as the temperatures decrease, especially if you enjoy getting outdoors for your physical activity. Staying active through the winter is still important for your physical health and there are plenty of indoor workouts that you can do in the comfort of your home. Melody Living’s state-of-the-art fitness room is well-equipped for residents of all capabilities with onsite fitness experts to assist residents in the use of fitness equipment as well as a variety of fitness classes.

​Sunshine and socializing
The main cause of seasonal depression is a lack of vitamin D with an increase of melatonin. Less sunshine paired with shorter days can make us tired, more agitated, and depressed. The best way to combat seasonal depression is by getting more vitamin D through a combination of natural light and supplements as well as socializing.
 
Social wellness and emotional wellness go hand-in-hand when fighting seasonal depression, and luckily, Melody Living always has a wide array of activities for each resident to join including clubs, classes, and outings. 

​Layer up
Staying warm, even when you stay in, is important. As we age, our ability to regulate our body temperature and stay warm decreases, and the likelihood that you may develop hypothermia increases. Invest in those plush blankets, fuzzy socks, and warm robes if you need to bundle up in your home and don’t be afraid to turn up the thermostat. When going out, be sure to wear a few layers as well as thick socks, a good coat, gloves, and a warm hat.

​Stay hydrated
Inside and out, we need to make sure we are staying hydrated. Winter and colder temperatures can actually make you dehydrated.
 
Make sure you drink your daily recommended intake of fluids through water or even hot tea if you want to stay warm. Keep your skin hydrated by continuously moisturizing each time you feel a bit dry and do the same for your lips and eyes by applying Chapstick and using eye drops, as needed. 

Give us a call today to learn more about Melody Living’s 8 Dimensions of Wellness and schedule a tour. To learn more about our independent living community, you can contact us at 719.900.1540. To learn more about our assisted living community and memory care community, you can contact us at 719.960.4005.