Most of our country is now deep into winter conditions and awaiting the thaw. Growing up in the New Mexico desert meant we were only able to open our windows to enjoy fresh air about 4 weeks a year, before spring turned to scorching heat. Further up into the mountains where family lives, near Santa Fe, New Mexico, the snow is now above 3 feet, and they are still yearning for the spring.

A large part of America is too cold to spend a lot of time outdoors most of the year. Many, especially the elderly among us, spend a large part of the winter trapped indoors. Taking a walk would mean donning several layers of clothing, sweaters, jackets, hats, and the like.

As I have seen over the years, seniors are avid fans of gardening, as it gives them something to do (and smell and taste).  Flowers and vegetables are favorites.

Gardening, as you may have guessed, is among my favorite activities. Amazing to me, last year I harvested just over 250 pounds of blue potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and various beans. This year the plan is to build a couple more raised-bed plots, and I am gleefully awaiting the beginning of spring so I can get started.

Having talked with others I have found gardening is a favorite for many because, among the activity and smells and tastes, it is fun and rewarding.  Other activities, even going walking, nowadays make many anxious.

With spring on its way, you must be made aware of a health warning.

We certainly all know the winter can jump into spring, in as few as 1-2 days. Then the sun, peeking through your windows, welcomes you to open your door and let its warm rays surround you. After months of confinement, the warmth puts a big smile on your face, and fills you full of awe, energy, and playfulness.

Quite unfortunately this energy may lead to injury or another issue that would force a senior back indoors for weeks. So, let me share some of what I have learned over the years with a few tips to help you avoid some of the seasonal issues that plague the senior community.

1. Make a plan – be prepared. Please realize that a gardener cannot plant their bonanza in a single day.  List what you want to plant, and how many. How many beds will it take?  Draw it out on a piece of paper. What materials will you need? Even if it is another activity you are planning – walking or bicycling – let someone know where you will be.
2. Make a timetable.  Be realistic and estimate how much time various activities will take. How long will it take to make a new bed?  How much time do you need to invest in planting the bed? Add that to your plan and determine how much you can do in a day, and how many days it will take. Do not push yourself, you are there to have fun.
3. Keep your clothes on – stay warm by dressing for the weather. Even though your neighborhood may be seeing the beginning of spring, the weather will still get cold at times. Keep putting the layers on, you can always shed one if you get to warm.
4. Stretching is one of the most injury-preventing steps you can take.  Stretch those muscles, no matter what your activity is – walking, bicycling, gardening, yard work, and such. Avoid strained, cramping, pulled, or torn muscles and tendons. Avoid the pain and resulting lack of mobility.
5. Drink water – staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for yourself. More physical activity? Drink more water.  Three-quarters of our body is water, so our body does not work quite as well when it gets dry. And not juice, coffee, tea, or even beer – drink water.

Stay safe by staying informed, thinking ahead, and being prepared. Keeping these few points in mind will help make sure the anticipated spring will be as enjoyable as we all hope!