Don't Let Cold Mornings or Evenings Interrupt Your Daily Walk: 3 Tips for Seniors in Westford

Temperatures are still relatively mild in Massachusetts, but our winter weather will arrive soon. Massachusetts winters pose some challenges for seniors who rely on a daily walk for their mental and physical health. The sun sets before 6 pm, and after daylight savings ends, it will be dark before dinnertime. Even when the sun is shining, icy sidewalks can make a daily walk a treacherous undertaking.

That doesn't mean you must give up your daily walk when winter arrives. If you live in Westford, Lowell, Tewksbury, Concord, or the surrounding areas, these three tips can help you stay safe while still getting the daily exercise you need to stay healthy and happy.

1. Get a Companion for Your Daily Walk

Being on your own could increase your risk of running into trouble while walking at night or in inclement weather in Concord. Walking with a buddy can help you keep each other safe while also having a friendly chat. If you don't have someone at home to walk with, ask a friend or neighbor if they'd be interested in joining you. You can also contact the Senior Helpers of Westford team to discuss companion care options, as we have team members who would love to join you on a daily walk.

2. Invest in High-Quality Walking Shoes

Sidewalks in Lowell and Tewksbury can get very icy in the winter, especially if a neglectful neighbor forgets to scoop the snow. You'll want to stick to well-maintained sidewalks as much as possible, but a quality pair of walking shoes with good treads can help reduce your risk of slipping and falling. You may want to switch from your tennis shoes to a good pair of hiking boots in the winter, as these will be better equipped for the snow and ice.

3. Opt for Indoor Exercise

Consider swapping your daily outdoor walk for an indoor activity during the winter. Cameron Senior Center in Westford offers several indoor activities for seniors. Classes include yoga, circuit training, pickleball, Zumba, and a Bone Builders class designed especially for building bone strength. The classes can help you meet new friends (and sunny weather walking buddies!) while helping you stay safely active during the dark and cold winter months. Having a winter activity to look forward to during the week can help make the dark winter months a little brighter, too.

Looking for More Tips on Staying Safe and Healthy This Winter?

Senior Helpers of Westford can help. We offer in-home care for seniors who want to maintain their independence but may need some additional support. Along with companion care, we can help with household tasks, surgery assistance, Alzheimer's care, and more. Our team can also recommend activities to help you or a loved one maintain good health in the winter or even prepare a fresh, healthy meal for a cold winter evening in Lowell, Tewksbury, Concord, and surrounding areas in Westford. Contact us, and let's discuss how we can help you or a loved one have a safe and healthy winter.