5 Ways Seniors Can Stay Active During the Winter

You want to be healthy, but find it hard to be active during the winter months. Dropping temperatures don’t mean you have to drop your normal health and fitness routine. Here are five tips every senior can use to stay active in the winter.

Turn on the tunes
Exercising doesn’t have to be a drag. If you like music, turn on your favorite tunes and get moving! Dancing is not only a great way to get your heart pumping, but it can help relieve stress and improve balance to prevent falls.

Play your way to healthy
Believe it or not, video games have become a popular activity in senior living residences. Video games, such as the Wii Fit and Wii Sport have helped many seniors stay active and have fun. These types of games are perfect for those that are looking for a modified workout.

Get in shape together
Grab your spouse or even your best friends and join a local fitness group. Benchmark Senior Living offers fitness classes for seniors, including yoga, tai chi, Zumba, and aerobics. Exercising with a buddy or in a group makes it easier to continue your fitness routine. There are also many online exercise tips that you can do from your home with little to no equipment.

Stay connected
Socializing helps strengthen your immune system by keeping you active and reducing your stress levels, so avoid the temptation to hibernate all winter. Invite friends over for dinner or host a game night, visit local museums and art galleries, wrap up warm and go for a walk in the park with your family or plan a cinema date with your partner.

Eat healthy
If you’ve never been a winter fan, start focusing on what you do love about it and how this time of year provides new opportunities for your fitness and health. From eating delicious in-season produce (oranges, kale, and chestnuts), to curling up with a big mug of hot cocoa after a workout, there is much to love about winter when you embrace and appreciate it.

While winter is a chilly time, these simple tips can help seniors stay healthy, warm, and safe all throughout the winter season. Of course, you should always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program.