Spring up your health
Published: 16/03/2023
Seasonal Concerns for Seniors in the Spring:
Just like any season, spring comes with some concerns. Along with the lovely changing of the leaves, there are a few things to look out for.
- Allergies & Inflammation
For seniors who are prone to allergies, it can be helpful to do the following during the springtime:
- Keep windows closed.
- Consider wearing a face mask when outside to filter pollen and other allergens.
- Purchase an air filter for inside your house.
Along with this, activities like gardening or housekeeping in the spring can cause inflamed joints. It can be helpful to talk with your doctor or physical therapist about how to best manage these issues.
- Falls
Even though fall and winter have passed, ice isn’t the only risk for slips. Water, rain, and other spring occurrences can cause an increased risk of falls and fractures.
- Weather Changes
Spring is sometimes thought of as a subtle, delicate season. The truth is that extreme weather can strike during this transitional time between winter and summer.
- Delivery Delays
With changes in daylight hours and weather shifting by the second (it sometimes seems), commonly delivered items or scheduled deliveries can be delayed. It can be helpful to have freezer meals on hand.
For family members, try checking in with an elderly loved one weekly to make sure they have everything they need.
Here are 5 ways for you as a senior to make the most of your wellness and put some spring in your step this season!
- Get in Your Garden
Adds colour to our world and bring multiple benefits to your life with gardening. It’s not only an excuse to be out of doors on a lovely spring day, gardening also promotes overall health and quality of life. Your physical strength, fitness, flexibility, cognitive ability, and socialization can also be promoted through this activity.
At Heather wood, residents may make use of our courtyard gardening boxes to plant and grow anything their heart desires! Gardening boxes are first come first serve to our residents, and those who would like to secure a space may sign up with concierge.
- Soak Up the Sunshine
Warm spring weather can improve your mood and cognitive function. According to studies, spending time outdoors and getting moderate exposure to sunlight for older adults strengthens bones and may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, hip fractures, stroke and heart attack. For those who may be at risk for low vitamin D, sunshine also protects against depression and insomnia.
We encourage you to safely absorb the sun’s rays by wearing sunscreen, a hat, long sleeves and sunglasses to avoid too much sun exposure. Our courtyard and outdoor areas feature comfortable seats and loungers for residents to enjoy on any sunny spring day!
- Take a Walk in Nature
People who moderately exercise outdoors in a natural environment can have improved feelings of revitalization and energy. After a walk in the fresh spring air, you may feel less tension and be happier and vibrant than if you were to exercise indoors.
Heather wood features a weekly to daily Walking Club which allows residents to get out and get active with friends! Look for the next Walking Club activity in our monthly activity schedule.
- Drink Extra Water
Many of us do not drink enough water, especially after exercising, which can lead to dehydration. Those who drink plenty of water reap more cognitive health benefits from exercise. Research says, drinking water when exercising is especially important for seniors since they often have diminished thirst perception.
- Lighten Up Your Diet
Many fresh, locally grown vegetables and fruits such as asparagus, cucumbers, mushrooms, radishes, peppers, sweet potatoes, rhubarb and strawberries are in season in the spring. Eating seven to 10 servings of vegetables and fruits each day may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
Our Dinning Hall features fresh and healthy items for you to select during mealtimes, and new spring menu items are to come soon! You can also stop by our fully stocked and always tasty salad bar any time of the day. There’s even a fruit snack station if your craving some sweet treats!
