How to Avoid Winter Slips & Falls
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 million adults in the United States suffer injuries due to slips and falls every year, and the likelihood of an incident occurring increases in colder conditions. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of slips and falls this winter, so you can Live Well Work Well – January 2023. Consider the following:
- Dress appropriately. Wear proper footwear, such as shoes or boots with good support and equipped with snow grips.
- Take your time. Avoid rushing while walking in cold temperatures, and pay close attention to any slip hazards ahead of you.
- Hold on. Use handrails when available, and consider a walking stick for additional support.
- Adjust your stride. Taking small steps can help you maintain your balance.
Aside from these tips, it’s also advisable to avoid risks altogether by not making any unnecessary trips during adverse weather conditions. If you do lose your balance, try to fall on your buttock or back rather than bracing yourself with your arms.
Keep Seasonal Depression at Bay
During winter, you may experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD). To combat this condition, consider the following remedies:
- Light therapy—Certain lamps can mimic the brightness of natural light, which may be lacking during the winter.
- Getting outdoors—Although winter weather may be unpleasant, spending time outside can still help you manage SAD.
- Eating well—Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet may alleviate SAD.
- Exercising—Physical activity can help relieve stress and anxiety.
- Socializing—Feeling connected to others throughout the winter can help your mood.
- Medical services—Consider seeing a mental health professional or talk to a doctor about medication.
Navigating the Tripledemic This Winter
As the world continues to recover from the coronavirus pandemic, you and your family should remain informed about the threat that COVID-19 continues to pose. Furthermore, health experts are also warning the public of additional illnesses that could be prominent this winter.
In addition to the continuing presence of COVID-19 and the annual threat of influenza (flu), many hospitals across the United States are concerned about potentially high respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases.
What is RSV?
Although RSV may be common, it should not be underestimated. Infections are usually manageable for most adults; however, infants and older adults may be at greater risk. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 58,000 U.S. children under 5 are hospitalized annually due to RSV.
Symptoms of RSV may resemble COVID-19, the flu or the common cold, including fever, runny nose and cough. In serious cases, RSV can lead to severe illnesses, such as bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
Why Are RSV Infection Rates Higher This Year?
Health experts are warning of greater RSV risk this year due to many people, especially children, having weaker immune systems in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. This is due to mask-wearing and social distancing exposing people to less germs. Now, as many health and safety guidelines related to COVID-19 have been lifted, risk of infection has increased.
How to Stay Healthy
To reduce your risk of infection this winter, wash your hands often, avoid touching your face, don’t interact with sick people and regularly disinfect surfaces. If you are sick, protect others by staying home and properly covering your coughs and sneezes.
Although there are currently no government-approved vaccines for RSV, staying up to date on COVID-19 and seasonal flu vaccinations is a crucial step to protecting yourself and your family.
Boost Your Immune System With These Foods
Your diet plays a crucial role in maintaining your health and wellness. The following may help boost your immune system this winter:
- Citrus fruit
- Shellfish
- Broccoli
- Spinach
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Yogurt
Check out last month’s edition of Live Well Work Well – December 2022.
All of us here at CoverLink wish you continued health and safety this year!