We’re nearly halfway there! We’re creeping up on the midpoint of the winter season. During the winter months, snow, ice and cold weather can make life challenging for everyone, but there are some health-related considerations to keep in mind, especially for older adults. Winter weather brings slippery roads and sidewalks and this can dramatically increase the risk of falls. Falls can have particularly severe consequences for seniors. Depression associated with social isolation and loneliness is also common during the colder months. Because it can be difficult and dangerous to get out and about, many seniors will have less social contact with others and this can have a detrimental impact on their health and wellbeing. Poor nutrition is another consideration. Evidence shows that many seniors are already at risk of poor nutrition and winter can make it more challenging for older adults to make regular grocery store visits and access fresh ingredients. These winter challenges affect everyone, but it’s important to keep in mind how they affect vulnerable seniors.
Read our evidence based resources on falls prevention, social isolation and nutrition below.
