Keep Your Elderly Loved One Moving During the Winter

As you probably know, there are many benefits associated with getting regular exercise. This is especially true for the elderly. Unfortunately, it can be difficult to stay active during the winter months. However, as a family caregiver, there are many ways you can help your elderly loved one get regular physical activity all year long. Keep reading to learn about some ways you can help your elderly loved one exercise this winter and the following winters, as well.

Home Care Paramus NJ - Keep Your Elderly Loved One Moving During the Winter

Home Care Paramus NJ – Keep Your Elderly Loved One Moving During the Winter

Getting to a Gym or Fitness Center

Your elderly loved one might want to join a gym. Gyms are a great place to get exercise, especially in the winter. Some gyms offer a discounted membership and workout classes designed for the elderly. If this is something your elderly loved one is interested in, you or a home care provider can help them to get signed up.

Doing Home Exercises

If your elderly loved one doesn’t feel comfortable leaving their home, there are many exercises they can do at home. Many of these exercises can help an elderly person improve their balance, become stronger, and boost mental stability. Many of the home exercises don’t require any equipment, so they will be easier for your elderly loved one to do. However, it can be beneficial to encourage your elderly loved one to incorporate some light weightlifting exercises. These types of exercises can help your elderly loved one gain muscle mass and increase their overall strength.

Get on Layers and Get Outdoors for a Bit

In most cases, the body of an elderly person produces less heat than the body of a younger person. This means the elderly usually get colder outside in the winter quicker than younger people do. However, if your elderly loved one loves being outdoors, you or a home care provider can have them put on layers of clothing and doing a little outside exercising. For instance, you can have them put on a pair of thermal long johns under their pants, a t-shirt under their sweatshirt, and a warm coat. These items will help ensure they stay warm while they get some physical activity outside in the winter. Remind your elderly loved one not to stay outdoors too long.

It can be difficult to exercise during the winter, especially for an elderly person. However, there are ways to get your elderly loved one moving during the winter months. You and the home care providers can use the tips found here today to assist your elderly loved one with exercising during the coldest months of the year.

Sources:  https://www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/ss20190116-winter-proof-your-workout

If you or a senior family member are considering hiring Home Care Services in Paramus NJ, please contact the caring staff at Caring Solutions Home Care LLC. In-home senior care servicing Bergen & Passaic Counties. Call today at (973) 427-3553.

Pamela DelColle, RN, CCRN