Have your elderly parents told you that they want to consider becoming “snowbirds.” A snowbird isn’t some white fluffy bird that spends its days playing in mounds of snowflakes. It’s a term used for people who reside in one part of the country during the summer (usually the more northern states) and also reside in the more southerly states in the winter. They are called snowbirds because when the snow begins in their “home” state, they fly away to warmer climates until those long, dark, cold days of winter are over. Like birds, they have become migratory, changing their home location when the weather changes. Snowbird services providers can be available to make the transition and daily life easier.
Health Benefits of Being a Snowbird
While many become snowbirds simply because they are tired of the cold winter weather in their current state of residence, there are numerous health benefits that many snowbirds can receive when they decide to spend part of each year in a warmer climate.
Improved Mental Health. Those short days that often are cloud-covered for weeks on end not only create dreary skies but can create dreary souls. The sun provides many health benefits, including important nutrients like vitamin D, and it also helps cheer the soul. Sunshine lifts the spirits and makes days brighter in many ways.
Reduced Pain. Cold, damp winters can cause a lot of pain if your loved one has a chronic pain condition such as arthritis. While the sun won’t heal your loved one from arthritis, it can help reduce her levels of pain due to it.
Reduced Risk of Injury. Bad winter weather, like snow and ice, increases the risk of your elderly loved ones slipping on some ice and falling or having a car accident. Clear roads and skies can help your loved ones see better and have a better footing under them when they go walking.
Better Physical Health. It can be hard to go out for a walk or play a game of pickleball when the sidewalks are covered in snow and the temperatures are in negative numbers. With consistently nice weather, your loved ones will be able to stay active and do all of the things they enjoy that also keep them healthy.
Healthier Skin. Having to stay inside 24/7 with forced heat can wreak havoc on older skin. It can cause it to crack, bleed, and even get infected. Without having to be constantly exposed to overly dry forced heat to keep living environments warm, your loved one’s skin can retain the moisture it needs.
Snowbird Services Can Help the Transition
If your elderly loved ones have made the decision that they want to try living in a different area of the country for several months each year, you may be worried about how they will get the help they need to remain in good health and be safe without you nearby.
Snowbird services offer assistance in many home care and personal care activities, helping your loved one thrive in their temporary lodging. From providing transportation services for those who don’t drive to assisting with home care chores to preparing healthy meals, a snowbird services team can step in while your parents are far away from their primary caregivers and create a safe reprieve from the cold winter months.
If you or an aging loved one is considering Snowbird Services in Crestline, OH, please contact the caring staff at Central Star Home Health today. Call 419-756-9449
Central Star Home Health is a Trusted Home Care Agency in Ohio, including Ashland, Bellville, Bucyrus, Crestline, Galion, Lexington, Mansfield, Marion, Mt. Vernon, Ontario, Shelby, and Willard.
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