As the winter months settle in and temperatures begin to drop, it’s not unusual to see a rise in seasonal illnesses.
But staying well over winter doesn’t have to mean isolating yourself in your home, there are a few things you can do to stay healthy throughout the cooler months. We’ve put together a simple winter wellness checklist to guide you through.
Your Healthy Winter Checklist
Book Your Winter Vaccinations
As the colder months settle in, making time for your winter vaccinations is one of the simplest and best ways to protect your health. You might think that because you’ve previously been vaccinated for influenza and COVID-19, you don’t need another dose. However, viruses change over time so it’s important to stay up to date with recommended vaccinations to help reduce the chance of severe illness and hospitalisation, protecting yourself and those around you.
For eligible people, including older Australians, the National Immunisation Program provides free flu and RSV vaccines. COVID-19 vaccines are also free and recommended for people aged 65 to 74 every 12 months, and for people 75 and over every six months. Vaccinations are the best preparation for winter, as those aged 65 and over face the greatest risk of severe respiratory illness and, hospitalisation. So, speak to your GP, pharmacist or health professional about getting vaccinated to protect yourself this winter. And know that it’s safe to get the flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines all at the same time.
Keep Active
Even though getting outside when it’s cold isn’t always appealing, staying active helps keep your body and immunity strong, your heart healthy and your mood lifted. Small amounts of daily activity such as brisk walking and strength-training count towards your health. Not to mention, staying active can help you maintain your independence for longer.
Fill Your Plate with Nourishing Foods
Keeping your immune system supported throughout the cooler months relies heavily on eating healthy, vitamin-rich foods. Focus on adding colourful fruits and vegetables, protein and wholegrains into your diet and look for foods with vitamins C and D, iron and zinc. If you’re struggling to incorporate enough nutrients into your diet, consider adding a supplement, but first consult your health practitioner.
Prioritise Your Sleep
While you sleep, your body sets to work. Sleep helps to support the recovery of any muscular issues and your immune function. If you do start to feel unwell, prioritising your sleep is key to getting your body on the mend.
Look After Your Mental Health
Winter can affect your mood, with reduced daylight hours and colder weather. Prioritise your mental health by spending time outside, enjoying a hobby and making time to socialise – these all help to boost your mood. Social connection, in particular, is important as it not only helps your mental health, but it can even help with memory and cognition.
A few small habits each day can go a long way towards helping you feel your best this winter. From speaking to your GP or pharmacist about keeping up with winter vaccinations to staying active, looking after your health now can help you stay well during the colder months.
Vaccination is the best preparation this winter. Speak to your health professional and book your vaccinations today, or visit health.gov.au/winter-vaccinations
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