Simple Ways to Stay Healthy During the Holidays
The holiday season is often filled with gatherings, travel, and traditions that bring joy and connection. It can also bring changes to daily routines, richer meals, and busier schedules. For older adults and their families, a little planning can can provide simple ways to stay healthy during the holidays.
At Welcome Health, we focus on whole-person care—supporting physical health, emotional wellbeing, and social connection. Here are a few simple reminders to help you take care of yourself and those you love.
Keep Your Routine as Steady as You Can
Holiday activities can easily disrupt sleep, meals, and medication schedules. When possible, try to keep your usual routine in place. Regular sleep, consistent meals, and taking medications on time all help support energy, mood, and overall health—especially during a busy season.
If plans change, small adjustments are okay. The goal is consistency where you can, not perfection.
Stay Connected in Ways That Feel Right
Spending time with family and friends is one of the most meaningful parts of the holidays. Social connection supports emotional wellbeing, cognitive health, and a sense of belonging.
If travel or large gatherings aren’t possible, connection can still happen in simple ways. A phone call, video chat, holiday card, or short walk with a neighbor can make a real difference. Small moments of connection matter.
Enjoy Holiday Meals—With Balance in Mind
Holiday foods are part of what makes the season special. Enjoy them, while also paying attention to balance and hydration. Lighter meals between gatherings and drinking enough water can help you feel your best.
If you manage conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or kidney concerns, planning ahead can help with portion sizes and meal timing so you can enjoy the season comfortably.
Support Safety and Mobility at Home
With decorations, visitors, and more activity at home, it’s a good time to think about safety. Keeping walkways clear, using good lighting in hallways, and moving slowly when standing up or changing rooms can help reduce the risk of falls and keep gatherings comfortable for everyone.
Plan Ahead for Holiday Travel
If you’re traveling this season, a little preparation can help reduce stress. Keep medications in your carry-on, bring a written medication list, take breaks to stretch and move, and stay well hydrated.
For caregivers, travel can also be a helpful time to check in on how a loved one is managing daily routines and whether any extra support might be needed.
Be Mindful of Seasonal Illnesses
Winter gatherings can increase exposure to colds, flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Simple steps like handwashing, staying home when sick, and keeping up with recommended seasonal vaccines can help protect you and those around you.
Reach Out if You Need Support
While the holidays can be joyful, they can also bring stress, fatigue, or feelings of loneliness. If you notice new symptoms, have questions about medications, or need guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Welcome Health is here to provide thoughtful, coordinated primary care—in the clinic, virtually, or at home when medically appropriate.
We wish you and your loved ones a healthy, peaceful holiday season.
Choose Your Health
Welcome Health provides comprehensive primary care for adults, with a focus on supporting older adults through personalized, coordinated care. Our team offers in-clinic care, virtual visits, and in-home support when medically appropriate for patients in Bell, Riverside, Los Alamitos, and surrounding Southern California communities.
Dr. Deena Goldwater VP of Care Delivery
Dr. Deena Goldwater, a cardiologist and geriatrician, trained at one of the nation’s top hospitals and has devoted her career to helping older people manage their health, even when facing multiple chronic conditions.
Keep in-the-know
We want to make it easy for you and your family to stay informed with the latest news. You can join your loved ones appointments through video conference or in person beside them at any time! Download our free information packet for more specific information on Welcome Health!