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3 Ways To Protect Your Elderly Loved One From Winter’s Chill

The LifeCare Mobility Solutions team would like to offer its utmost respect to every single member of the Canadian Armed Forces, both past and present. As it is Remembrance Day, we especially pay tribute to those who have fallen in the line of duty to protect this great nation of ours.

Winter officially get underway on December 21st. But chances are that we will experience many child days long before then. If you live with an elderly loved one, it’s important to be diligent about finding ways to keep him/her warm. As Companions For Seniors points out, this is especially true for seniors who have chronic conditions such as diabetes or thyroid problems. These illnesses can make it harder for seniors to maintain a healthy body temperature.

Here are three ways to protect your elderly loved one from winter’s chill:

1. Cover up the extremities.

There’s probably no simpler advice we could give. Please make sure your elderly loved one is adequately covered from head to toe whenever going outside this winter. It’s particularly important to keep his/her extremities covered. That means toques and gloves are mandatory.

“It’s important to encourage seniors to dress warmly,” agrees Companions For Seniors, “One idea may be to encourage your loved one to wear a sweater or heavy robe which they can take on and off as needed. Socks, slippers, long underwear, and night caps can also help.”

2. Keep warm food and drinks on the menu.

We all know the benefits from a hot cup of soup or cocoa. Keep the warm foods coming all winter long! By consuming warm food and drinks, you can help to keep your body temperature at a comfortable level. Rhode Island Health and Fitness Magazine also notes that eating some extra healthy fats can help boost your metabolism, which in turn, keeps your body warmer.

“If you can’t work extra fats into your diet, try other warm foods to heat your body,” advises their website, “Soups, and stews, along with warm drink and spicy foods are all great ways for seniors to warm their bodies from the inside out. However, consider avoiding alcoholic beverages as they thin your blood and can make your body even colder.”

3. Get your elderly loved one to be physically active.

We would argue there’s no better way to generate body heat than to exercise. Not only does some light exercise promote blood circulation and weight control, it helps to keep you warm. If your elderly loved one is prone to spending a lot of time in a stationary position, it’s time for a little “get up out of your seat” encouragement. When possible, engage in a fun physical activity with the senior in your home. Dance party anyone?

“It’s easier to feel cold if you’re sedentary,” Companions For Seniors reminds us, “Encourage your loved one to remain active, within limits — this could be as simple as regularly getting up and moving around their home, perhaps with the assistance of a supportive caregiver or companion. In other cases, light exercises like yoga or lifting weights can help promote healthy blood flow. “

At LifeCare Mobility Solutions, we’d love to help the senior in your life have a safe and enjoyable winter. Learn all about our mobility solutions by calling us at 416-267-9800 or emailing us at info@lifecaremobility.ca. You may also contact us by filling out the form on our Contact page.

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