Ahh, the holiday parties are upon us. From charcuterie boards to egg nog and relaxing by warm fires, make it memorable this year by feeling your best. Eating, drinking, and being merry without missing any good stuff is 100% possible!
Food is a big part of family togetherness and holidays. However, as we age, our bodies—and bellies may not bounce back as quickly from one too many sweets, skipping a few glasses of water, or losing sleep. Little things can become big things, and sometimes those big things can make us miss an occasion. Thankfully, we’ve got some helpful ideas to take it ALL in.
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This season, aim for flexibility in your routine. There’s no need to forgo the cheesecake or drag the whole family out to a 5k—if you do, that’s fantastic, but think about a little balance this year. Staying in good health may help you enjoy all of the wonderful memories the season has to offer with your family and friends by your side!
8 Tips to Enjoy the Season:
Eat Up
We know “Calories don’t count during the holidays,” but extra creamy foods combined with sugar, sugar, and more sugar can wreak havoc. No one has time to spend the season trapped in the bathroom or writhing in pain in the fetal position from a stomachache. Eat all the things, but throw in a green salad or two for better results.
Say Cheers
Shoot for beverages low in sugar, and stay mindful of what’s in your cup this season! Cocktails are pretty and fun but enjoy them carefully so they don’t affect your health. With some planning, you can create beautiful “mocktails” that are low in calories and that the kiddos can enjoy as well.
Keep Moving
Maybe you’re away from your gym or typical exercise routine. Perhaps an inch of ice makes your morning run or walk risky. To get around this, work in small bits of exercise, such as range-of-motion exercises, short walks around the house, or pop on YouTube and work out to a video. Try to keep your body moving; it will thank you!
Make Time for Self-Care
Doing what your body needs to stay healthy is not selfish! Take a bath, drive, drink tea, or enjoy a book or two. Family time is great, but little breaks can keep you enjoying the occasion for the long haul.
Keep Your Medication Routine
Forgotten medications or not tracking blood sugars can lead to unwanted effects, such as ER visits or missing special occasions. Set reminders to take your prescribed medications if you need to. Also, remember to test your blood sugar if you’re diabetic, and be mindful of your diet.
Get Your Zs
It’s easy to stay up late and get up early to enjoy everyone’s company. Be sure to rest when you’re tired, even if it’s a nap here and there; sleep can make a big difference in enjoying every minute of your gatherings.
Wash Up
December is hand-washing awareness month; celebrate by scrubbing up! Celebrations can mean that germs are everywhere. When your adorable little relative hands you a cookie with their questionable mitts, we will probably eat it; there’s no question. However, if that cookie will set you over the edge because they’ve already given you 5, here’s an idea: tell them you’d like to save it so you can think about them later while you enjoy it. It’s a heart-warming way to accept the gift and keep their little heart happy!
Celebrate How & Where it Works Best
If kiddos or anyone else is sick, consider rescheduling for everyone’s benefit. Those with multiple health conditions or who are in advanced age can have a much tougher time recouping from common colds and the flu. Be flexible so everyone can enjoy the occasion without compromising their health. Togetherness is far more important than the actual date when it comes down to honoring any occasion.
We hope you have the most enjoyable holiday season and stay healthy to savor all the hugs and goodies! Are you planning to celebrate with your loved one who’s an Edgewood resident this year? Let us know in advance, and we’d be happy to find you a space to help you celebrate where everyone can be comfy. If you have questions about senior living services, contact us at info@edgewoodhealthcare.com.
