Article by Lucy Caldwell, Fairfax County Health Department
(Posted 2022 October)
Fall is here, which means it’s time to start planning for the colder months ahead. As you break out the gloves, hats, scarves, and jackets, consider adding these five health tips to your winter prep routine:
Be up to date on COVID-19 vaccines: Everyone 50 and older is eligible for a second COVID-19 booster dose. Get the primary vaccine series AND booster doses to stay protected against serious illness. Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna bivalent COVID-19 vaccine boosters are now available at Fairfax County vaccine clinics. Find out more from the Fairfax County Health Department at FairfaxCounty.gov/health/immunization.
Get a flu shot: Flu season is coming up and getting a flu shot is the best way to protect yourself. BONUS: Save time with only one appointment! You can get a flu vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine, including a booster dose, at the same time.
Stay active: Cold weather can disrupt daily walks or other outdoor physical activities. Fairfax County Senior Centers offer a variety of virtual and in-person, indoor classes so you can stay warm while you stay active. Find more about activities at Senior Centers by visiting FairfaxCounty.gov and searching for "Senior Centers."
Continue to hydrate: With cooler temperatures, hydration may take a back seat to other healthy habits. But drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps aid in the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. Whether you are thirsty or not, it is important to monitor fluid intake and consume water and water-rich foods (such as soup or produce) at all times of year. Even mild dehydration can contribute to confusion, fatigue, loss of strength, reduced coordination and decreased cognitive function.
Stay connected: Winter can be lonely and impact emotions for many people. No matter your age, combat isolation and darkness by checking in on family, friends, and neighbors. If you can’t meet in person, phone calls and video calls are a great way to stay connected from a distance. Reach out, connect, and share fond memories or plan for events ahead as we all endure the cold together.
This article is part of the Golden Gazette monthly newsletter which covers a variety of topics and community news concerning older adults and caregivers in Fairfax County. Are you new to the Golden Gazette? Don’t miss out on future newsletters! Subscribe to get the electronic or free printed version mailed to you. Have a suggestion for a topic? Share it in an email or call 703-324-GOLD (4653).