Six Tips for Older Adults to Thrive During the Holiday Season

Jeffrey Patterson on
Maintaining a focus on personal health and safety is especially vital during this time of year. These six recommendations will help you have a more joyful, healthy, and injury-free holiday season.
Six Tips for Older Adults to Thrive During the Holiday Season
1. To maintain energy levels and nourish our bodies, we need to strike a balance between pleasure and healthy eating habits. Portion control is essential, as is eating until you are satisfied rather than full. Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, and protein are all necessary components of a balanced diet and should be consumed in moderation over the holiday season. "Eat what you love in moderation," says Jody Engel, a nutritionist and registered dietitian at the National Institutes of Health.

2. Maintaining proper hydration is crucial throughout the hectic holiday season. Adequate hydration is critical for maintaining energy, improving alertness, easing digestion, and safeguarding brain health. If you drink alcohol, drink plenty of water beforehand, during, and after. According to Healthline, alcohol "causes your body to remove fluid at a much quicker rate than other liquids." Healthline.gov

3. Move and keep active all year, especially during the winter months. Make time for exercise, such as mild yoga or a walk through the mall. When heading outside, layer your clothing and cover your mouth and nose. To avoid falls on icy paths, use proper footwear with nonslip soles. Consider using a cane or walker as needed.

4. To maintain mental and emotional well-being during this difficult season, prioritize self-care and stress management. Relax and recharge. Setting acceptable goals for the allocation of our resources (time, money, and energy) is critical. We can reduce stress by scheduling downtime and practicing mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, meditation, and listening to music.

5. During the holidays, it's easy to lose sight of our everyday routines and medications. It is critical to stick to your medication schedule and doses as suggested by your doctor. Using a pillbox with sections for each day serves as a visual reminder to take medication and avoid taking multiple doses at once. If you need help, don't be hesitant to ask a family member or friend.

6. Protect yourself: Many illnesses spread more quickly throughout the Christmas season. Other health risks, such as COVID-19 issues, can be mitigated by encouraging vaccines, exercising hand cleanliness, staying home when sick, and avoiding close contact with others in your immediate vicinity.

The secret to a safe and pleasurable vacation is combining enjoyment and self-care. By following these six suggestions for staying healthy and safe over the holidays, you will be able to prosper and enjoy the season with confidence, knowing that your health and well-being are protected.

Happy holidays!