4 Early Morning Habits and Routines to Feel Less Isolation This Winter
Because of the cold weather, seniors will be cooped up indoors more often now that winter has arrived. Feelings of isolation this winter might occur if seniors spend a lot of time at home, so it's important to establish regular morning routines and habits.
The winter months may be particularly difficult for seniors due to the increased risk of social isolation. Because of the weather and the risks involved, most seniors hibernate throughout the winter. Senior caregivers should take precautions to prevent social isolation, which may lead to negative mental health outcomes such as sadness, anxiety, and discomfort if the senior spends too much time alone or in a secluded environment.
This post will go through morning routines and habits that can help seniors feel less lonely this winter.
1. Exercise and Movement
The advantages of being active go well beyond the physical. It can improve a senior's mood, lower stress, and increase their energy levels thanks to the production of feel-good chemicals like serotonin and endorphins. There's no need to shell out money for a gym membership to maintain a senior's fitness level.
Virtual classes are another option, as is scheduling a regular physical activity with a buddy, like a bundled stroll around the neighborhood. As a group, seniors will have more resources, more incentive to stick together, and all the other good things that come with having strong social ties.
Everyone has to find a workout routine that works for them. Once seniors settle on a routine that appeals to them, they'll be working up a sweat and experiencing the same rush of endorphins they would from working out at the gym.
2. Allow Some Light at Home
It's tough to trick the brain into thinking it's morning if seniors have to get up in the pitch black. So, turn on some lights to kick off their cold-weather morning routine properly. Given that the sun won't provide light, they'll have to manufacture some.
Light therapy devices, also known as sun lamps, are widely used to mimic the beneficial effects of natural sunlight artificially.
3. Develop Good Eating Habits
Eating a balanced, nourishing diet is essential to living a healthy life. High-processed food and high-refined sugar diets have been linked to increased vulnerability to developing and worsening mood disorders like depression.
Keeping seniors' diets in check may be difficult with all the sweets and savory treats still lying about after the holidays, but seniors can try eating a lot of fruits, vegetables, and lean meats and only indulging in these holiday treats occasionally.
4. Stay Connected and Develop a Support System
When seniors are going through a tough time, it's crucial to speak to the people who care about them and who they trust. Seniors can share their worries and the strategies they're doing to cope with them. These connections may strengthen their mental and emotional fortitude, even if they are just virtual.
In order to reduce seniors' feelings of isolation this winter, their families can set up a regular time to talk on the phone, send an email, or write a letter. They can also create online movie screenings, quiz nights, and other gatherings for additional entertainment.
Senior Helpers St. Petersburg is Ready to Help
At Senior Helpers of St. Petersburg, we have caregivers that will often check in on your loved one to see how they are doing, particularly during the winter when they may feel lonely. A qualified expert makes house calls and visits to seek out any problems that an inexperienced friend or relative could miss.
Our service areas include St. Petersburg, South Pasadena, Gulfport, St. Pete Beach, and Treasure Island. Contact us immediately to learn more about our services.