Winter is here, and we’re all dreading the cold weather. However, another reason to dread this season is staying at home alone. Senior-friendly independent living communities are an excellent solution for those who want to keep their independence but need extra care during winter. Here’s why you should consider assisted living in Dallas, TX, for yourself or your loved one:
Social Engagement
There are many reasons to consider moving into a senior-friendly independent living community this winter. One of the most important is to stay socially engaged, which can be very helpful in improving your mental health and physical health.
Social engagement is critical for cognitive and emotional well-being at every age, but even more so as we age. It’s one of the critical factors that can help you maintain a healthy brain and body, reduce loneliness and depression symptoms, keep memory sharp, lower stress levels, and even improve sleep quality (to name just a few benefits).
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
If you’re feeling the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), it’s not your imagination—the winter blues are authentic. SAD is a type of depression linked to shorter days and colder winter temperatures and can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and sleep problems.
Unfortunately for those living in northern latitudes like Canada or Alaska, SAD is far more common than in other parts of the world where there’s more sunlight year-round. Still, it’s not an impossible condition to treat: light therapy can help alleviate depressive symptoms associated with this time of year by exposing yourself to artificial light equivalent to total sun exposure (10,000 lux).
Reduced Risk From Slips And Falls
One of the leading causes of injury for older adults is slips and falls. Each year, about 2% of people 65 years old or older are treated in emergency rooms for fall-related injuries, according to the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC). Thousands more never seek medical treatment due to embarrassment or not wanting their family members to worry—so these figures may be higher. Although many falls happen inside homes with carpeting, the risk of falling is highest when walking on ice- or snow-covered surfaces and when walking up or down stairs because this requires a lot more balance than a flat surface does.
Slip-and-fall accidents can result in serious injuries such as broken bones, concussion, head trauma, and other orthopedic problems like sprains/strains; all of which could lead to worse outcomes if left untreated without proper medical attention such as surgery.
Your loved one may also have an increased risk if they have poor vision, balance problems, weak muscles (from reduced activity), or loss of feeling in their legs due to diabetes complications such as neuropathy.
Flu Season
Winter is the time of year when flu season begins. The flu can be severe for older adults, so taking steps to protect yourself and your loved ones is essential.
Everyone over the age of 6 months is recommended to get a flu shot. A flu shot is free for those who meet specific income requirements, and most health insurance plans also cover them!
Reclusion
Reclusion is a problem that affects many older adults. It can lead to depression, isolation, and loneliness. The elderly are more likely to experience reclusion as it gets colder outside. This is why they must be encouraged to get out of the house and socialize with other people in the winter.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a senior living community that will care for your loved one, Elderly Assisted Living Communities are the best way to go. These Communities offer all-inclusive medical care, grooming, and transportation services. They also have activities planned throughout the day/week so residents don’t get bored during their stay.
