Spring Health Tips for Seniors

Spring’s arrival provides the perfect opportunity for seniors to rejuvenate their health and wellness. Longer days mean more opportunities to get outdoors and harness the energy a new season brings. Spending time outdoors in the spring sunshine has many positive effects for seniors, including lower stress, improved mood, and enhanced health. 

Here are five spring health tips specifically for seniors to help them make the most of their wellness and put some spring in their steps this season. 

Take a Nature Walk

Research shows that older adults who spend consistent time outdoors improve their health and well-being. 

Anywhere between 20 to 30 minutes, three days a week, is enough for older adults to see an improved mood and well-being. Put some spring in your steps by taking more nature walks this season. Walking outdoors is one of the easiest, low-impact exercises a senior can do. Explore new paths and trails in Beaver Dam using this walking map. 

Lighten Your Diet

Another spring tip for seniors is to lighten your diet. More local vegetables become available as the weather grows warmer in the spring. Incorporate more fresh vegetables by eating more salads and less hearty stews and soups. Slice fresh fruits for snacks and opt for an extra serving of vegetables instead of grains. Plan to visit the Beaver Dam Farmers Market, opening in May 2023, to buy local fresh produce. Enjoy lunch with other older adults at The Watermark. 

Drink More Water

As seniors become more active in the spring, working in their gardens or taking more walks, another spring health tip is to drink more water. Seniors have a greater risk for dehydration because their thirst response diminishes with age. It’s important for seniors to stay hydrated and to drink plenty of water after exercising or being active. Purchase a new reusable water bottle to carry with you around the house, in the garden, or out on a walk. Take steady sips throughout the day. 

Revisit Social Connections

Winter can be a season of isolation for some seniors. Colder weather, shorter days, and snowy conditions can leave some seniors feeling stuck at home. Spring is the perfect time for seniors to revisit their social connections and re-engage with the community. Join The Watermark and take advantage of the many social programs and activities. The Watermark offers a variety of educational and recreational activities throughout the year for active older adults. They also provide discounted transportation for seniors to and from the center. 

Spring Clean Forgotten Areas

A final spring health tip for seniors is to spring clean forgotten or neglected areas in the home so the home environment remains safe. Clean out your pantry and discard expired foods. Sort through your medications, including over-the-counter and supplements. The Beaver Dam Police Department has a drop box for expired or unused drugs where they can safely be disposed of. Clear away clutter and remove throw rugs or other items that increase your risk of a fall. Disinfect commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, and counters. Finally, check your smoke detectors and replace batteries as needed. 

One final spring health tip for seniors is to partner with Visiting Angels Beaver Dam. We provide professional and dependable senior care you need at an affordable cost. Our personalized approach to in-home care, compassionate caregivers, and flexible scheduling can help your senior loved one live their golden years comfortably and safely in a familiar place – home! Our compassionate caregivers can help you put more spring in your steps by escorting you on nature walks, assisting with meal planning and preparation, helping out with light housekeeping, and providing friendly companionship. To learn more, please contact us today by calling 920-821-1111.