NIAGARA network
with approaching storms coupled with
a less active lifestyle in winter can cause
stiffening of joints. There are theories
that muscle tissue shrinks and pulls on
nerves increasing pain as well. Dressing in
warm layers is key. Pay special attention
to head, hands and feet, as the majority
of heat is lost at these points. Keep your
joints mobile with physical activity, heat
and exercise. Talk to your physician or
pharmacist about adding a Glucosamine-
Chondroitin supplement or Omega-3 fish
oil supplement. If you’re considering taking
an OTC medication for pain reliever such as
Acetaminophen or NSAIDS for discomfort,
always consult your physician due to risk
of dangerous interactions with your other
medications.
Know your risk factors, take precautions,
exercise preventative health practices, be
vigilant in managing your disease process
and ensure you have an adequate supply of
your medications.
DRESS FOR THE WEATHER –
INDOORS AND OUTDOORS
Proper dress for older adults during the
colder months is critical for health and
safety. It is important to maintain a warm
indoors and dress appropriately there, as
well as know how to dress for the weather
outside.
• Keep indoor temperatures at a
minimum of 68 degrees.
• Close off rooms and vents that are not
in use. Place rolled towels or blankets
to block drafts under doors. Caulk or
apply plastic on windows to reduce
drafts and heat loss.
• Be cautious when using space heaters
and fireplaces (fire hazards, carbon
monoxide risk).
• Wear socks and footwear, and layers of
loose-fitting clothing, to keep warm.
• Wear long underwear with pajamas.
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• Use a throw blanket on your lap when
sedentary and stretch legs and arms
hourly.
• Eat healthy meals to keep up your
weight. Drink alcohol and caffeine
sparingly, to help your body maintain
constant temperature.
• If you live alone, have friends and family
check on you frequently, preferably
morning and evening. They can tell if
your indoors are too cool, see if you are
showing signs of hypothermia or poor
health, and have timely conversations
about impending bad weather.
Outdoor Practices:
• Dress in loose layers (not tight). The
air between layers is a great insulator of
warmth, and layers allow for adding or
removing clothes to stay warm and dry.
• Always wear a hat and scarf to reduce
heat loss from your head.
• Wear slip resistant foot wear and wait
whenever possible for sidewalks to be
free of ice and snow before stepping out.
• If it is snowing or raining, wear a
waterproof coat or jacket.
• Change out of wet or damp clothes as
soon as possible.
Preparation is key to dressing smart for
the upcoming cold season. Don’t wait for the
weather to become extreme to try on your
winter clothes, shoes and boots, and get help
weatherizing your home. Prepare a safety kit
for when you do have to travel (flash light,
bottled water, hand warmer, medicine, and
whistle). Keep your cell phone with you at
all times, in case you need to call for help.
GOOD NUTRITION FOR
WINTER MONTHS
Winter in our region can be tough on the
healthiest bodies. Healthful eating can help
boost the immune system to help prevent
colds and flu which are more prevalent in the
winter months. Sandra Sweet, a Registered