The Family Business A SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTHCARE AND COMMUNITY

Self-Care Tip: Create a “winter comfort” routine

A winter comfort routine helps seniors and disabled adults stay warm, safe, and relaxed during the cold months. Start the day in a warm room, put on soft layers, and enjoy a warm drink like tea or cocoa ☕. Light stretches or slow movements can help loosen stiff joints, and simple meals like oatmeal or soup 🍲 keep the body strong and comfortable. Keeping the home well-lit and clutter-free reduces the chance of falls, and a humidifier can ease dry air.

Staying connected is also important. A quick call with family, friends, or a caregiver 📞 can lift your spirits and make sure you have everything you need. In the evening, enjoy calming activities like soft music or reading 📚, use lotion to prevent dry skin, and make sure your path to the bathroom has a nightlight for safety 🌙. A warm blanket, cozy clothing, and a regular bedtime help end the day feeling safe, comfortable, and cared for.

Additional winter tips include staying prepared for emergencies by keeping a small kit with items like a flashlight, batteries, extra medications, warm blankets, and bottled water 🔦🧣. It’s helpful to check the weather each day so you’re ready for cold or snowy conditions ❄️. To avoid winter illnesses, keep your hands clean, wear a mask or scarf when needed, and talk to your doctor about things like vitamin D 🩺. For emotional well-being, try to sit near windows for natural sunlight or use a light therapy lamp if recommended ☀️. Staying in touch with family and friends can also brighten your mood and help prevent loneliness ❤️.

FOR FAMILY

🏃‍♀️ Movement Tip: 5 Indoor Workouts for Cold Days

Chair Exercises 🪑 Simple seated movements—like arm raises, leg lifts, and ankle circles—help improve circulation and reduce stiffness without putting pressure on joints.

Indoor Walking 🚶‍♂️ Walking slowly around the home or down a hallway is a safe way to stay active. Using a mobility aid is perfectly fine—movement of any kind helps keep the body warm.

Seated Yoga 🧘‍♀️ Gentle stretches done from a chair help relax tight muscles, improve posture, and reduce stress. Deep breathing makes it even more calming.

Light Resistance Bands 💪 Using soft resistance bands for bicep curls, shoulder pulls, or leg strengthening can boost muscle strength without heavy weights.

Tai Chi or Slow Movement Flow 🌬️ This gentle, slow-moving exercise improves balance and calmness. Many routines can be done standing or seated.