Wintertime Health

WINTERTIME HEALTH & WELL-BEING

By JON KEARNEY Handi Medical Supply

For those who do not flee the great white north during the winter months, we encounter extra challenges. The cold has a way of affecting us in a variety of ways. It is critical to our health to be aware of these risks and to understand strategies that can keep us healthy as we wait out the long months until t he spring thaw.

Simple things such as getting from our cars to our homes become more hazardous thanks to ice and snow. The air we breathe becomes potentially dangerous for those with respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). Physical activity becomes less frequent now that the planned after-work walk through the neighborhood is prefaced by howling wind and darkness. Even our general happiness and mental health are strained as social gatherings and opportunities to breathe fresh air become increasingly limited.

Below are some tips and habits to help keep you upright, health, and happy until the frosty grasp of Old Man Winter lightens up and we are greeted by spring once again.

Fall Prevention and Mobility:

• When walking on slippery surfaces, walk like a penguin with your weight out over the balls of your feet and take shorter steps to avoid your feet sliding out from underneath you.

• If you use a cane, consider an attachment such as a foldable icepick to provide more stable footing.

• Be a good neighbor and maintain your sidewalks to allow safe passage for all, especially those who are in a wheelchair.

Respiratory Health:

• When the temperature drops, limit time outdoors and avoid overexerting yourself with activities such as shoveling snow.

• If you are outdoors, dress in layers and cover your nose and mouth with a scarf or facemask.

• Breathe through your nose as much as possible so that the air entering your lungs stays as warm as possible.

• Maintain a house that is clean and free of dust, mold, and allergens. Utilize air purifiers and humidifiers as needed, and keep them clean, to ensure that the air you are breathing is clean and not too dry.

Mental Health:

• Stay physically active by joining a gym, exercising in your home, or enjoying outdoor activities such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

• Engage in social activities as much as possible while remaining mindful of health factors such as handwashing and staying home when feeling sick.

• Be honest with yourself and reach out to mental health providers for early intervention if you are struggling. Something as simple as light therapy can even help elevate your mood.

We wish you all good health this winter! ■