Some tips for Staying Healthy, Active and Connected During the Winter
Some tips for Staying Healthy, Active and Connected During the Winter
Author: Chris Thomas
Date: 20 February 2025
As we find ourselves well into the colder months, it’s essential for older adults to maintain their wellness and stay connected. Winter can pose challenges, but with the right strategies, you can stay active, mentally healthy, and socially engaged. Age Concern South Canterbury offers various resources to help our community thrive during winter.
Keeping moving is crucial for maintaining good health and mobility even in the winter. Simple home exercises like stretching, chair yoga, and tai chi can make a significant difference. Age Concern Manager Chris Thomas says, “Regular movement helps keep the body flexible and strong, even when the weather keeps us indoors. If needed us a chair for support. It can keep you keep you balance and prevent falls.”
Dreary winter days can also bring on feelings of isolation and sadness. To help overcoming the winter blues keep mentally active, perhaps using mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
There are various programs and resources to ensure older adults maintain their mental wellbeing. “Staying mentally engaged is a key to a healthy winter. Age Concern’s Friday Club, the St John SJ Club and several churches provide social groups and activities that help our community stay positive and active,” says Thomas.
Social connections are vital, and for some people technology can bridge the gap. Video calls, social media, and online communities can help maintain important family and whanau connections. Age Concern South Canterbury’s SilverTech courses can assist older people with setting up and using smartphones so they can be more confident and competent.
Thomas says, “Staying connected virtually ensures our older family members don’t feel isolated. We’re here to help make technology accessible and easy to use. Our resources are designed to meet the needs of our community, providing both social and practical support throughout the winter months,” adds Thomas.
For more information on the resources and support available from Age Concern South Canterbury, please visit our new website ageconcernsc.org.nz or contact our office phone 03 687 7581. Together, we can ensure a healthy, active, and connected winter for our older community.
