As we head toward the cooler months, it is important (now more than ever) to look after our health; boosting our immune system could give us the best chance against common colds, flu and COVID-19.

Residents at The Richardson are cared for by a brilliant team of registered nurses, qualified care staff, a range of allied health professionals and a wonderful on-site Chef who prepares delicious (and nutritious) varied meals, fresh – daily.

For the rest of us mere mortals, who aren’t living with a team of experts, here are some tips for staying healthy in mind & body this winter:

1. Healthy Fresh Food
It might seem obvious, but it’s a good reminder that chowing down on unprocessed, fresh produce may be the most effective way to boost your immune system.

As we’re all spending more time at home, it’s a great opportunity to start growing our own vegetables and herbs. Here are some veggies that can be re-grown from their own scraps:

If you don’t have a green thumb, you can still get fresh produce delivered to your door by a number of local grocery delivery services, such as The Doorstep Grocers who offer free delivery on fresh local produce.

If you find yourself still juggling work / life and are time poor, you can access healthy meals delivered to your door. There are many meal delivery services, but we like to support local business – check out Fresh Clean Eats.

2. Keeping Active
The Department of Health and Human Services suggests at least 20 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each day. Whether it is a gentle stroll through the neighbourhood (whilst maintaining social distancing) or a guided, at-home workout; any amount of physical activity contributes to a fitter, healthier – and, very likely, happier – you!

There are many online workouts available, one of the more extensive on offer is from Les Mills who provide access to over 800 different classes from yoga to a more intense, high energy workout.

3. Mind full or mindful?
All of this ‘staying home’ has allowed everyone to slow right down – is this really such a bad thing? We think not! Let’s use this time to reflect, realign and reorganise.

What does mindfulness look like to you?

• It could be using some quiet time to reconnect with a loved one or an old friend through a phone call or email.
• Perhaps taking 10 – 15 minutes out of each day to try a meditation – Smiling Mind is a fantastic resource to help guide you through a meditation or relaxation with their free app.
• Or, if you feel at peace in a clean & organised home; discover some tips and tricks on how to regain inner-peace by reorganising your space from world-renowned tidying expert Marie Kondo.

4. Vitamin Supplements
Health professionals recommend boosting your immune system with additional vitamin supplements. Zinc, vitamin C, probiotics / prebiotics and herbal immune supplements (eg products containing olive leaf extract & echinacea) may help – speak to your healthcare professional about what might be suitable for you.

5. Flu Vaccine
Residents at The Richardson have already received their Flu Vaccine. New directives issued by the Department of Health requires all visitors (including staff, visitors, health practitioners and volunteers) to aged care and nursing homes must be vaccinated against the Flu. To consider this option for you or for more information click here.

Stay home, safe & healthy.

If you require support or wish to speak to someone about your situation or that of a loved one, please don’t hesitate to contact us on (08) 9381 2800.