It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like… A Healthy Holiday
Besides being a joyous time of the year, the holidays can sometimes be challenging for seniors.
It’s often a combination of celebration and chaos. The shopping and party-going that defines this time of year, can be exhausting for our older adult clients.
So here are some holiday health tips to help you enjoy this holiday season and help keep you safe and healthy throughout this festive period.
How The Holidays Can Impact Senior Health
The increased number of festivities and commitments are challenging to cope with. This is especially true for seniors who have recently lost a loved one.
Regular routines are interrupted which often leads to a difficult time eating healthfully, exercising regularly, and getting good quality sleep.
However, we can suggest ways to ensure you’ll be happy and healthy during the holidays.
With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can manage your own expectations with your family and friends throughout the holiday season.
Adopting Senior Holiday Health Tips
During this season you should dedicate time to eating well, exercising regularly, and maintaining proper sleep hygiene.
By maintaining this focus you will do wonders for your physical and mental health and could even improve your mood or immunity which will set you up nicely for the new year.
Here are our holiday health tips for a happy, healthy holiday season.
Holiday Nutrition & Hydration
Include Nutritious Foods
Everyone wants to enjoy the rich holiday meals that are sure to be on every menu. But enjoy these tasty foods without overindulging.
Celebrate the holidays by truly savoring your favorite flavors but be sure to include fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-rich foods.
Tune in to Your Internal Eating Cues
Another healthy eating tips for the holidays is to tune into hunger cues.
This means listening to your body and its signals, such as when you feel hungry or full. Doing so can guide eating habits and help you be more mindful about what you’re eating and how much you’re eating.
Keep Hydrated
In addition to eating well, don’t forget to drink plenty of water. We recommend 64 ounces of water daily.
There are water bottles that have the measurements right on them. They make it easy to stick to a regime.
Physical Activity
We all know that exercise is essential to maintain health – both mentally and physically.
But it is natural to feel intimidated by the chilly temperatures outdoors. Make sure you follow these winter safety protocols, but be determined to keep on track
Bundle up and put on some sturdy shoes that will help keep your safe and warm.
Bring along a family member for hiking or ice skating at one of the holiday rinks.
If you are still turning up your nose at this idea, go to the gym.
If even that is not possible, there are many activities that you can do in the comfort of your own home like chair yoga.
Sleep
Sleep seems to get more difficult as we age.
This time of year, when routines are constantly changing it could be harder to get a good night’s sleep. But it is important.
Try to focus on sleeping and waking at the same time each day and limit your caffeine intake.
Hygiene
It’s vital to practice good hygiene this time of year. Wash your hands frequently and consider wearing a face mask when you are in public.
If you don’t opt for the face mask, do practice social distancing to avoid contacting viruses. I know it’s almost impossible but also try to avoid large crowds while you are shopping.
At our office we love on-line shopping.
In Conclusion
This is the season for celebrating with family and friends. At Kabb Law we want you all to enjoy the holiday and stay healthy. Follow our holiday health tips to make that your reality!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
