As the weather gets colder, seniors may be less inclined to exercise and prefer to stay at home. In fact, according to NCOA research, seniors should stay active in winter, whether engaging in indoor or outdoor activities. This helps support physical function, prevents cardiovascular conditions, and guards against the onset of diseases, among other benefits. Additionally, breathing fresh air and participating in social activities positively contribute to alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety. Before delving into the winter exercise, let's read the following 7 safety tips.

1. Physical Examination and Consultation with a Doctor

Regular check-ups help assess the overall health of seniors, ensuring the safety and feasibility of exercise plans. Patients with heart disease or diabetes, for example, may not be suitable for vigorous exercise. For seniors undergoing medication, certain drugs may affect their ability to exercise.

2. Stay Hydrated and Replenish Energy

During exercise, it's crucial not only to wear warm clothing and shoes for staying warm but also to stay hydrated to prevent dehydration. At the same time, moderate energy replenishment is recommended to avoid issues such as dizziness, fatigue, and muscle cramps.

3. Plan Ahead

For long time outdoor activities, it's essential to gather information about external factors such as weather, routes, time, temperature, and terrain in advance to ensure a safe environment. Carrying a first aid kit is also recommended.

4. Stay Connected

Keep your phone nearby, tell your family or friends where you are and what you are doing, ensuring they can reach you at all times and ask for help when needed.

5. Carry Medications and Set Medication Reminders

If undergoing medication, remember to carry the necessary drugs and set medication reminders.

6. Organize and Tidy Up Your Exercise Area

If exercising at home, ensure you have enough space and remove obstacles like coffee tables and sofas.

7. Walk Safely

To promote a secure walking experience, several key practices should be followed. Firstly, engaging in a warm-up before exercise. Secondly, when walking outdoors, avoid ground obstacles, uneven terrain, and pay attention to traffic. Additionally, considering the use of assistive mobility aids during outdoor walks can further enhance safety.

According to the latest APA research data as of November 1, 2023, nearly 46% of American  individuals aged 75 and above have disabilities, and almost 30% adults ages 75 and older are facing serious walking issues. These data indicate that as age increases, the likelihood of leg injuries also rises. Therefore, considering an assistive mobility device can assist in reducing leg muscle injuries and fatigue, lowering the likelihood of leg problems.

Today, more seniors recognize the importance of protecting their leg ability. Take the case of Ava Anderson, a 60-year-old woman from Texas, who said, "Although I don't have leg problems, I often feel leg fatigued during outdoor activities, which bothers me a lot. Later on, my daughter purchased a VOCIC mobility scooter, solving my leg fatigue issues. Now, I use it almost every day  for activities such as shopping and visiting friends."

Such cases prove that assistive mobility aids are not only beneficial for seniors with walking issues, but also equally beneficial for those looking to ease walking burdens and enhance convenience in daily life.

Using VOCIC as an example, let's explore several commonly used assistive mobility aids.

• Rollator Walker

These 4 wheel walkers are typically used to assist individuals with limited mobility, providing stable support to help users maintain balance while moving. Compared to standard rollators, they exert less pressure on leg muscles and come equipped with a seat for resting when fatigued. Products like VOCIC Z21 Ergonomic Foldable  Rollator Walker even include a pouch for carrying bottled water, snacks, medications, and a mobile phone. Generally, 4 wheel rollator walkers on the market range from $100 to $500, and VOCIC Z21 Ergonomic Foldable  Rollator Walker is both affordable and practical. If you're considering a 4 wheel walker, VOCIC Z21 Ergonomic Foldable Rollator Walker is worth a try.

• Mobility Scooter

These 4 wheel scooters are ideal for individuals who can only stand and walk short distances but have freely movable hands. These foldable mobility scooters are suitable for activities like shopping, walking, and visiting neighbors over short distances. They can be conveniently stored in the trunk during family travels and even taken on planes. Models like VOCIC D91 Fold-Go Mobility Scooter is a good example; furthermore, they come with an automatic folding feature, making family travel stress-free. With solid rubber tires suitable for various terrains, including grass, uneven surfaces, gravel, and sand. Some 4 wheel scooters can also be equipped with an umbrella, providing assistance even in rainy weather, as seen in VOCIC D40 Explorer-Swift Economical 4 Wheel Mobility Scooter.

• Lightweight Electric Wheelchair

Lightweight wheelchairs are specifically designed for individuals who cannot use manual wheelchairs. These electric wheelchairs often require less physical effort, as users can easily control the wheelchair's direction and speed through buttons or a control lever. For example, VOCIC V53 lightweight Foldable Power Wheelchair comes with a lithium battery for longer usage and environmental friendliness, along with electromagnetic braking for safety. With a 4cm thick cushion, users can sit for extended periods without feeling fatigued. The breathable design of the cushion ensures comfort even in the summer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, seniors can engage in moderate exercise during winter to maintain physical and mental health. Before exercising, it's crucial to be familiar with safety tips, including doctor consultations, staying warm, planning ahead, etc. Purchasing assistive mobility aids is also a suitable choice to ensure walking safety. If you need advice on selecting and purchasing assistive mobility aids, feel free to contact the VOCIC customer service team.