The holidays are a wonderful time to reconnect with family, enjoy traditions, and slow down a little.
But for many seniors, this season also brings a few challenges — colder weather, crowded spaces, travel stress, and changes to routines.
The good news? With a little planning, you can stay safe, healthy, and fully enjoy this special time of year.
Here are some simple, practical tips to help you make the most of the season (and the rest of the winter too!).
#1. Protect Yourself from Winter Illnesses
Colds, flu, and respiratory viruses tend to spike during the holidays, especially when we’re gathering indoors.
Seniors can be especially vulnerable, especially if you have heart, lung, or immune conditions.
Here are some tips to help you stay healthy:
- It’s not too late to get immunized for flu, COVID-19, RSV and other infectious diseases (and most insurance covers them)
- Wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizer “handy”
- If someone in your family is sick, don’t hesitate to step back or change plans. It’s better to reschedule than risk getting seriously ill
- Keep a small “health kit” handy: hand sanitizer, tissues, and extra medications
A healthy holiday doesn’t have to mean you have to avoid friends and family…just plan ahead and use common sense.
#2. Watch Your Step
Travel, holiday get-togethers, and the occasional Texas ice storm can increase your risk for falls around the holidays. Here are some good ideas to help you stay on your feet:
- Wear supportive shoes with good traction
- Keep walkways, porches, and driveways free of leaves, moisture, and obstructions
- Use night-lights in hallways and bathrooms
- Try to reduce clutter on the floor and use non-slip rugs
I like to remind my clients that a small adjustment today can prevent a major injury tomorrow.
#3. Keep Medications on Track
Holiday schedules can be unpredictable. It’s easy to forget a dose when you’re traveling, hosting guests, or staying up later than usual.
Good tips:
- Use a pill organizer or daily medication reminder
- Pack extra medication if traveling, because delays happen and plans can change
- Make sure prescriptions are refilled; pharmacies may have limited holiday hours
- Keep a list of all medications handy for emergencies
A little planning keeps your health stable all season long.
#4. Enjoy the Treats…but Eat Smart
The holidays are filled with delicious temptations, and you should enjoy them! Just use a little common sense, especially if you’re concerned about diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart conditions.
Here are some ideas:
- Try to take smaller portions…especially of holiday treats
- Add veggies and lean proteins to your holiday plate
- Drink plenty of water between meals
- Limit salt and sugary drinks when possible
- Bring a healthier dish you love to potluck dinners
You don’t have to skip your favorite pie, just be aware when you eat.
#5. Avoid the Holiday Blues
If you’ve lost a loved one or your family lives far away, the holiday season can sometimes be a lonely time.
Here are some ways to keep your spirits up:
- Schedule regular phone or video check-ins with your family
- Look for community or church events you might enjoy
- Make it a point to reach out to neighbors, friends, or family member
Your emotional health is just as important as your physical health. Small moments of connection go a long way to help keep your spirits up.
#6. Double-Check Your Medicare Coverage Before the Year Ends
We’re already done with Medicare Open Enrollment, but you have other opportunities to get with me and double-check your coverage.
Remember…costs, networks, and coverages can change from one year to the next.
With January right around the corner, the holidays are actually a great time to make sure you’re set for next year’s health coverage. Even if you like your plan, costs, drug coverage, and networks can change.
If you’re unsure whether your 2025 plan still meets your needs, I’m happy to go over your coverage with you. A quick review can prevent unpleasant surprises once the new year begins.
Enjoy Your Holidays with Safety and Confidence
The holidays should be filled with joy, not stress. A few simple precautions can help you stay healthy, avoid accidents, and fully enjoy time with your friends and loved ones.
If you have questions about your Medicare coverage, Goodell Health Solutions is here to help. You don’t have to figure it out on your own — and you shouldn’t have to.
Reach out to me at goodellhealthsolutions.com, call me at (832) 773-7981, or email me at scott.goodell@ghstx.com.
Scott Goodell
Goodell Health Solutions
We Put “I Care” back in Medicare