How Older Adults Can Stay Healthy During the Alaska Winter

Alaska is known for its stunning mountain scenery, but living in this beautiful place comes with some tradeoffs – most notably, the long winters. In some parts of Alaska, temperatures can fall below -50 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter. The state’s proximity to the Arctic circle also means there’s very little daylight during this period as well. Since winters in Alaska can be very challenging, it’s important for older adults to focus on their health. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy during this time.

Invest in quality workout wear that will keep you warm. 

It can be tempting to skip your workout because it’s cold outside, but you shouldn’t. Maintaining a regular workout routine protects your body against injury, improves your stamina and endurance, and can even improve your mood as well. To make your outdoor workouts more comfortable, invest in clothing that you can layer while you exercise. This should be clothing that won’t restrict your movement and will wick away sweat while still keeping you warm.

Focus on a balanced diet.

It can be tempting to stick to rich, hearty foods during the winter, but over time an excess of meat or processed foods can lead to chronic health problems like type 2 diabetes or heart disease. Instead, focus on eating a balanced diet with whole grains, leafy greens, fruits, and healthy sources of fat and protein like eggs, fish, and nuts. When you do eat meat, stick to lean sources of meat like chicken.

Don’t neglect your mental health.

Alaska gets particularly dark in the winter – on the shortest day of the year, Anchorage only sees 5 hours and 28 minutes of daylight. This prolonged darkness combined with cold weather can be very challenging for your mental health. Make sure you’re taking care of your mental health by making time for hobbies and socializing with the people you care about. You may also want to consider getting a lamp designed for seasonal affective disorder and make sure to talk to a mental health professional if you need more guidance.

Make sure you have health insurance you can trust. 

Older adults need reliable insurance they can count on. Alaska residents who are either over the age of 65 or have disabilities may qualify for Medicare coverage. Original Medicare consists of Part A, which covers inpatient hospital costs, and Part B, which covers outpatient costs like doctors’ visits and medical supplies. Patients can also purchase supplemental coverage, such as Medicare Advantage (Part C) or Medigap. You can also choose to purchase a Part D plan, which covers prescription drugs.

If you’re over 65 in Alaska, Medicare provides important healthcare coverage to keep you feeling great. To learn more about your Medicare options, contact Time for 65’s licensed partnered agents today. Fill out this form or give us a call to see how we can help.