Winter is here, and with it so is less daylight, colder weather and a load of challenges that keep people from feeling their best.

Winter often presents downsides for the older adult, because not only does the snow and ice increase the chances of falling, but poor heat regulation, increased respiratory illnesses and mental issues like depression and loneliness have been known to be reported more frequently. This often means that older adults forget to prioritize their personal wellness and sometimes end up isolating themselves because they do not want to venture out into the bad weather.

�–� Prioritize yourself.

�–� Make sure you stay warm. Wear layers and keep your living space warm.

�–� Stay active even while indoors. Regular exercise is imperative to keep your body strong and your mood happy.

�–� Stay hydrated. Make sure to drink even when you are not thirsty. Not only is winter air drying, but many people tend to feel less thirsty in it, so therefore they become dehydrated. This means it is important not to forget to take those extra sips throughout the day.

�–� Try to get as much natural light as you can. Going for a brief walk is known to boost one’s mood and increase energy. And if you do not want to go outside in the frigid air, try sitting next to a sunny window.

Also, we sometimes forget nutrition in these colder months by falling back on snacks and quick things to eat. It is important not to let nourishing meals that provide energy and support our immune system become a thing of the past. Instead, enjoy warm and hearty meals like soups and casseroles that contain vegetables, protein and whole grains.

And while we want to build up our energy, we also want to prioritize sleep and allow our bodies to recharge. We should aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Get into the habit of reaching this goal by creating a bedtime routine that involves calming activities.

Finally, keep up with your medical appointments. Not only do people tend to avoid the doctor in poor weather — typically because they do not want to risk traveling on bad roads or in snowy conditions — but they forget that certain conditions can be exasperated by the weather and may need attention.

Cold weather is known to aggravate conditions like heart disease, respiratory issues (COPD, asthma), arthritis, and even diabetes, which can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia, falls and even cold related injuries (such as hypothermia) because of poor circulation.

While winter may bring its own set of challenges, being aware of what to look for and staying on top of your personal wellness plan is key to avoiding these pitfalls. The lack of daylight and warmth does not mean that you put your needs on the back burner. Instead, stay active, connected and supported during the winter months so you do not need to worry about the negative that can affect your overall health.