It’s no secret that living within the walls of a retirement community can be a cozy experience for seniors during the winter. Less worrying about the need for snow removal, emergency backup generators, and other vital essentials needed to survive the colder months, and more opportunities to benefit from the mental and social aspects of community life during what can otherwise be a very isolating time.
Across Ingleside’s communities, residents have access to a plethora of programs they can partake in to maintain a balanced, healthy lifestyle that supports a strong sense of wellbeing and physical health. From enriching programs like indoor aerobics and art classes to music therapy, Ingleside team members are committed to helping seniors live a fulfilling and integrated life no matter the season.
At Ingleside at Rock Creek’s campus for example, residents turned the aftermath of the D.C. region’s first snowstorm of 2025 into an opportunity to have some fun in the frost. The residents, all bundled up and excited to go outdoors, came together in the courtyard to make snow angels. While at other communities like Westminster at Lake Ridge, Ingleside team members came together to support with shoveling and plowing snow while also providing transportation for staff and residents. The staff members also went the extra mile for residents helping with door-to-door food delivery.
The Importance of Physical Activity During the Winter
Winter wellness is vital for seniors to maintain as physical activity helps reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as arthritis and diabetes, while supporting mobility, and helping to improve overall mood. Additionally, staying active can help boost the immune system, which is crucial during cold and flu season. And while many seniors face challenges like limited mobility, fear of falling on icy or slippery surfaces, or a lack of motivation due to shorter daylight hours, Ingleside has a range of physical activities that can be safe for residents to enjoy indoors such as the following:
- Instructor-led Tai Chi or Dance Classes: Across communities, a number of dance and unique fitness classes are accessible for residents looking to challenge their endurance and improve stability while reducing the risk of falls and improving cardiovascular health.
- Water Aerobics or Yoga: Ingleside’s communities offer a variety of convenient options to make fitness fun such as a daily swim or instructor-led water aerobics at their Aquatic Center, while other Ingleside communities offer yoga classes for those who choose to practice indoor wellness and mindfulness.
- Walking Indoors: For those who’d like to bring their daily outdoor stroll indoors, taking a lap or two around the community or getting in a few miles on a treadmill or elliptical at a designated community fitness space to keep the body moving, is a great alternative.
- Simple Stretching Routines: Loosening tight muscles and increasing range of motion in the comforts of your room is also an option for those with less mobility.
Staying Safe and Comfortable Indoors
Ingleside prioritizes resident safety, especially for residents in higher levels of care during winter when icy conditions and cold temperatures increase risk. Our communities incorporate safety features like handrails and accessible living spaces.
For those seeking comfort indoors, residents can enjoy cozy indoor spaces like the library, dining venues, and community rooms, where they can socialize or relax in comfort. Ingleside’s Center for Healthy Living at Rock Creek, for instance, weaves together programs that focus on all eight dimensions of wellness — physical, intellectual, spiritual, emotional, financial, occupational, mental, and social. Environments such as these not only ensure safety but also provide opportunities for meaningful connections and engagement.
For more information about Ingleside communities, visit us online.