Sometimes, a senior loved one needs a little bit of extra care. During cold and flu season, it is especially important to safeguard your senior from potential illnesses. To ensure the best possible care for your loved one, it is vital to create healthy habits that they can continue throughout their lifetime. Here are four easy habits for senior wellness from Senior Helpers Grosse Pointe that you can help implement today to keep them happy and healthy all year round!
Eat Nutritious Foods
One of the best things you can do for your senior loved one is to ensure they are eating nutritious foods. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats will help them maintain their physical health. These will also give their bodies the nutrients needed to stay energized during colder months.
Additionally, packing meals with complex carbs such as whole grains helps regulate blood sugar - avoiding energy peaks and drops that make this time of year hard to cope with.
Get Regular Checkups and Vaccines
It is essential to stay on top of regular doctor's appointments and vaccines. Seniors often benefit most from an annual checkup with their primary care physician or a specialist. During the appointment, your loved one can help identify any potential health risks and have these issues addressed promptly. Furthermore, staying up-to-date on seasonal flu shots will help protect them for the duration of cold and flu season!
Practice Good Hygiene
Teaching and reminding your loved one to practice good hygiene is an essential way to keep them healthy throughout the year. This includes washing their hands frequently with soap and warm water, showering regularly, and avoiding large crowds or gatherings when possible. Seniors should also change out of clothes if they have been exposed to any potential germs. Regular disinfection of door handles, countertops, remotes, toys, and game pieces will help ensure a clean environment. Doing these things will keep germs at bay.
Get Adequate Sleep
Finally, helping your loved one get adequate rest helps keep them feeling their best. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep per night. This will help reduce stress and increase energy levels throughout the day! Napping or taking time to relax can be helpful for seniors during colder weather when they may find it more difficult to stay active.
Senior Helpers Caters to Seniors' Unique Needs
Following these simple habits for senior wellness can help keep your loved ones healthy all year round, even when colds are running rampant. If you need extra support, our team of senior care professionals at Senior Helpers Grosse Pointe is here to help. We have decades of experience taking care of each senior's unique needs. Senior Helpers can provide activities that help promote and maintain a healthy life. Contact us today for more information on how we can help your senior loved one in Sterling Heights, Grosse Pointe, Clinton Township, Macomb County, and Roseville.