Winter is well and truly here, and it’s a chilly one! For people with limited mobility, winter can be a worrying time due to reduced circulation, stiff joints, slippery surfaces and the dreaded flu. The good news is there are many ways to keep warm this winter, and we have some quick tips to help you stay healthy during the cold and flu season.
Keep your hands clean!
Wash your hands, especially after coughing, sneezing and before you eat. If you use a wheelchair, keep hand sanitiser or disinfectant wipes in your attachable carry bag, so you can clean your hands and wipe down your wheelchair regularly.
Eat more antioxidant-rich foods
Antioxidants boost your immune system and neutralise chemicals known as free radicals to prevent them from damaging your health. Common antioxidants include vitamins A, C and E - found in most fruit and vegetables, and minerals such as zinc - found in baked beans, chickpeas and nuts.
Add more of these foods to your diet or take vitamin supplements to help fight the flu this winter.
Keep your winter essentials handy in a carry bag for your wheelchair or mobility scooter.
Get the flu vaccine
The flu virus is constantly adapting. This means you need to get the flu vaccine every year to prevent from getting sick. This is especially important for older people and those with less mobility, as they are more susceptible to the flu.
Keep warm!
If you’re going outside, wrap up warm with several layers. About 10% of your body heat is lost through the head, followed by the hands and feet - so wear gloves, warm, thick socks and a wooly hat to stay warm. You could also invest in hand and foot warmers.
Sheepskin products keep you warm by providing extra insulation and add extra comfort.
Get your wheelchair winter-ready
If you plan on spending lots of time outdoors, we recommend a sheepskin wheelchair cover to prevent heat from escaping through the seat of the chair. Sheepskin wheelchair covers provide additional warmth and comfort, and they help to reduce the risk of pressure sores. Sheepskin can also be found in slippers, arm rests, and elbow and heel protectors!
By following these five simple steps, you can avoid getting the flu this winter, saving on medical costs and avoiding a slow and sometimes unpleasant recovery.
At Life Mobility, we aim to empower people living with a disability or with limited mobility, helping them to lead active and independent lives. We understand that each person’s needs are unique and therefore require a customised solution.
You can view our full range of products online, visit our Bayswater or Mornington showrooms, or contact us today for more assistance.