Keeping Seniors Active & Engaged This Winter: Tips for Families in the Chaska, MN Area

Winter in Chaska, MN and the surrounding communities can be fun for those who love the snow, but the bitter colder temperatures and shorter days can make it hard for seniors to stay active. At Visiting Angels, we understand how important physical activity is for their physical and emotional well-being, especially during the long, cold winter months. Being consistently active helps maintain strength, balance, and mood, which in the long-term improves a person’s quality of life.

Helping Seniors Stay Active and Engaged Throughout the Winter.

1. Indoor Exercise

When our Minnesota winter weather keeps us indoors more often, it doesn't mean we need to stop exercising. There are plenty of ways for seniors to remain active and in shape right in the comfort of their own homes (or indoor spaces close by). Here are a few ideas:

• Strength and Balance Training: Exercises like chair yoga, resistance band workouts, and balance exercises are great for building strength and improving core stability. The moves are all low-impact and helpful for fall prevention, a big concern for senior care. These activities are easy to do at home without the need of equipment. This YouTube video offers a few simple exercises seniors can try. 
• Online Fitness Classes for Seniors: Many local organizations and online platforms offer virtual fitness classes designed specifically for seniors. Think low-impact aerobics, gentle stretching, or even Tai Chi. Classes can be a fun way to stay active, and can be done with friends and family. Local clubs like CorePower Yoga and The City of Chaska’s Silver&Fit® has a Fit at Home Facebook Live exercise series. 
• Indoor Walking: Get Those Steps In! Even without braving the elements outside, seniors can get their steps in! Local malls (like Eden Prairie Center), the indoor track at the Chaska Community Center, or even just walking around inside the home can provide a way to get some light cardio and improve senior health.

2. Community Resources

Chaska and many surrounding communities offer some resources for seniors who want to stay active and connected. Here are some options:

• Group Activities and Community Resources: Check out The Lodge - Chaska Senior Center or the Carver County Library for programs and activities specifically designed for seniors. They have a number of events and activity options like exercise classes, cards, knitting, and bingo. Check out the latest newsletter on their website to see what’s coming up.  
• Find Support Through Home Care: For seniors receiving home care services (like those offered from Visiting Angels) the consistent presence of a caregiver provides in-person support and helps to keep seniors active. Caregivers can help with transportation to local groups and classes, provide companionship during walks, and they even help with simple exercises at home.

3. Stay Socially Connected While Moving

Staying connected with others is just as vital as physical activity, especially during the winter. Combining social interaction with movement can make exercise more enjoyable and be a great mood booster. Here are some ideas:

• Partner Workouts and Social Groups: Exercising with a friend, family member, or even a Visiting Angels caregiver can provide motivation and companionship. 
• Interactive Games and Engaging Activities: Games that involve movement, like Wii Sports or virtual games like bowling, can be both entertaining and physically beneficial. Activities like dancing, painting, or woodworking utilize both the mind and body, encouraging creativity and providing a sense of accomplishment. 
• Music and Movement: Music has a positive effect on mood and helps to encourage movement. Listening to favorite songs and dancing—even while seated—can boost spirits and increase activity levels, which supports overall senior health.
  

4. Adapt Outdoor Activities

While staying indoors is often preferable during the worst winter conditions, some seniors still enjoy getting outside. Safety is extremely important when participating in outdoor activities:

• Dress Warmly and Appropriately: Layering clothing is the best way to stay warm and dry. Be sure to wear insulated gloves, a warm hat, and non-slip boots to prevent falls.
• Modify Activities and Consider Mobility Aids: Choose low-risk activities like short walks on cleared and salted sidewalks. If needed, use a cane with an ice tip or walking poles for extra stability. Our Visiting Angels caregivers are able to assist with safe outdoor activities that have been approved by the individual’s physician.
• Check the Weather: Before heading outdoors, always check the weather forecast and avoid going out during icy or extremely cold conditions. Frostbite, falls and hypothermia are real dangers, especially for our senior population. 
  

5. Get Approval for Activity

For seniors with health conditions or mobility concerns, checking with a professional is best:

• Personalized Exercise Plans: Physical therapists can design a personalized exercise plan that is tailored to your senior’s individual needs and abilities.
• Expert Guidance: Certified fitness trainers that specialize in senior fitness can provide guidance and encouragement.
• Consult Healthcare Providers: Check with a doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if there are pre-existing conditions.
• Visiting Angels: Our Visiting Angels Chaska case managers can work closely with healthcare providers and therapists to make sure appropriate exercise plans are integrated into the senior’s overall care plan. Caregivers can provide reminders, encouragement, and transportation to their appointments.

How Visiting Angels Can Help

For families in the southwest metro area of the Twin Cities seeking peace of mind knowing their senior loved ones are in capable and caring hands, Visiting Angels is here to help. We proudly serve communities like Chaska, Prior Lake, and Eden Prairie, providing personalized care plans that are tailored to each individual's unique needs. Our compassionate caregivers are dedicated to promoting independence, safety, and well-being. Contact us today to discuss your family's needs and discover how Visiting Angels can provide the support and peace of mind you deserve.