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The winter season brings with it a few challenges and health-related risks, especially for the elderly. Fitness experts share a list of tips and best practices for you to avoid common cold and weather-related problems this winter.
Epidemiological studies have shown excess winter mortality particularly in older age groups where older persons, particularly men over 60 years, are less able to maintain core temperature during a given cold challenge compared to younger individuals. Exposure to cold temperatures and impairment of thermoregulation can lead to decreased core temperatures, direct effects such as hypothermia (core temperature below 35°C) and indirect effects such as frostbite, pneumonia and influenza.
suggested the following tips for protection from ill effects of cold on human health:
1. Stay warm by adequate layers of clothing and use of heating appliances.
2. Stay active. Cold weather often keeps us indoors and limits physical exercise. This is associated with bone loss. Handy exercises indoors can prevent bone loss
3. Stay hydrated. Cold weather often decreases thirst and elders tend to take less fluid. We need to ensure that they are taking enough fluids.
4. Proper foot wears to prevent falls which can be dangerous in elderly and cause hip and spine fracture.
5. Winter depression can be prevented by communicating with the elderly regularly.
6. Nutritious diet - A proper diet with good vitamin D is essential for maintenance of proper health
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