I don’t know if you’ve noticed but it is getting cold. Very cold!
We’ve probably all seen the social media jokes about putting on an extra jumper to save a few pennies on the heating cost, or quipped about wearing a bobble hat on our next run.
But of course, freezing weather and dark nights can be very serious for some people, not least the older members of our community.
An Age UK survey at the end of last year found more than half of older people were concerned or very concerned about the onset of winter, with many worrying they wouldn’t be able to heat their homes or that they would not have enough to eat.
Of course, the oft-talked about ‘eating versus heating’ conundrum that some of the most vulnerable people sadly have to face up is a really important topic, but equally the mental health of our older residents at this time is of great concern.
Winter is a challenging time generally for people’s mental health, with reduced sunlight levels and seasonal adjustment disorder. But for older people, it can be even worse. With the risk of falls increased by slippery conditions or the cold causing people to fall ill, the temptation is to stay tucked away at home, hibernating for the winter.
However, this isn’t always the best solution, especially with many older people living on their own after losing a partner or spouse. Hiding away during the winter months can increase the likelihood of mental health issues among older people, including depression, anxiety and cognitive decline.
Staying active and sociable are two ways of countering this problem. Older people need to maintain social connections, even in times of poor weather. This can reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Equally, exercise is vital, not only reducing the risk of anxiety and depression, but limiting people’s risk of suffering from falls – something which increases during the winter months.
There are a raft of things older people can do from visiting their local community centre or cafe to taking a trip to the theatre, and the main message of this blog post is to encourage people to stay as happy and healthy as possible in these dark months.
But as a fitness and exercise company, we at Step Forward With Lewis also believe that staying active is fundamental. That’s why we think our Get Up & Go! classes are the perfect antidote to this grim weather.
Not only do we provide a chance for participants to stay strong, maintain their balance, avoid falls and improve their flexibility, we have a strong and friendly community. From chatting in classes to meeting up afterwards for a cup of coffee, Step Forward With Lewis’ Go Getters benefit from an exercise filled and socially active life.
To find out more about what we do, please visit this page or email stepforwardwithlewis@gmail.com.
I’m off to put a jumper on!
Get up and Go! sessions last 45 minutes each and are held at:
Tuesdays at 10am, in Hardingstone Village Hall, Hardingstone (back room)
Wednesdays at 11:10am, in Wootton Community Centre, Wootton
Thursdays at 10am, in Hardingstone Village Hall, Hardingstone (back room) and at 14:20am, in Milton Malsor Village Hall, Milton Malsor
Fridays at 10am, in Abbey Centre Baptist Church, East Hunsbury and at 13:10pm in Wootton Community Centre, Wootton
Recent Comments