How to Stay Healthy During the Holidays
2020 has been challenging for all of us. The upcoming holidays will definitely tempt us to seek comfort in all of the traditions that we love and keeping healthy during the holidays can be challenging. It starts with Halloween, then Thanksgiving, goes right to Christmas then directly into New Year’s Eve. While this time of year can be fun, it can also be hectic, stressful, and wreak havoc on your health, especially for the older population. It is important to stay vigilant in order to stay healthy. Here are 10 ideas to ensure you and your loved ones have a safe and fun holiday season!
Staying Healthy During the Holidays
- Stay on schedule. There are several aspects of health that are affected by schedule such as sleep and digestion. Sticking to a schedule is also important to those with Alzheimer’s. While it can be tempting to go to parties, stay up late or wrap gifts, it is more important for our health to stay on schedule.
- Quality sleep is important. Experts recommend to try for a minimum of 7 hours of sleep per night. We understand that this can be challenging for some, here are 7 sleep health tips to help improve the quality of your sleep.
- Indulge, but don’t over indulge. Part of the joy of the holidays is the food! Indulging once in a while in a traditional holiday food is to be expected, but over indulging can cause gastrointestinal distress, trouble sleeping, or fatigue. To ensure the holidays are enjoyable, avoid over eating, and indulge in small quantities. Then get back on schedule quickly.
- Don’t mix medicine with alcohol. There are many medicines that can react negatively to alcohol. Alcohol can even affect your quality of sleep. If you do drink, think strategically about how to enjoy the alcohol in moderation.
- Don’t forget the simple things. It can be stressful trying to get everyone the perfect gift, attempting to hang Christmas lights on time etc… Often during the holidays, we cut out the “unnecessary things” such as exercise, naps, or meditation. These are exactly the things we should be doing!
- Flu shots are important. This year, especially with the pandemic, it is important to get your flu shot. Did you know there is a flu vaccination especially for people 65 years and older? Talk to your doctor about which vaccine is recommended for you.
- Stay hydrated. Staying hydrated is even more important as you get older. Older adults who are dehydrated may be at a higher risk for complications like constipation, electrolyte imbalances, UTIs, kidney problems, and loss of balance.
- Decorate safely. As we get older, we may be tempted to continue to do things we probably shouldn’t be doing such as hanging lights on the roof, moving heavy objects, or going up into the attic alone. Call family members or neighbors to complete more dangerous tasks. This may be the year to do less.
- Wash your hands. According to the CDC, hand washing is one of the top ways to avoid illness. During these times, it is even more important to keep our hands clean.
- Protect yourself and others. Be considerate and wear a mask over your nose and mouth when around others.
Almost Home DayBeak and Almost Home Senior Services are here to help families by offering quality and affordable Adult Day Care, Assisted Living & Family Consulting Services, including information and resources on how to keep yourself well.
Contact Jamie or Trish at (904) 731-4002 or email info@almosthomeseniorservices.com if you have any questions on how we can help you and your family this holiday season. We look forward to talking with you soon!
