Fall Into Better Health

The leaves are changing and it’s getting colder. Though these changes signal fall, they also mean that your immune system is about to enter its busy season.

When it gets cool, you know cold and flu time’s near. And because your immune response slows with age, you may have a harder time fighting infections and bouncing back when you get sick.

Supporting your body’s defenses can help you fight off these infections and recover quickly.

Supporting your immune system doesn’t require a complicated regimen. Many of the habits that help keep you healthy year-round, such as eating well, moving, sleeping, spending time outside and connecting with others, also protect immunity.

Here are a few ways to give your body’s defenses some extra TLC this fall.

Eat the Rainbow

Orange may be fall’s signature color, but don’t stop there. Fill your plate with reds, greens, purples and yellows, too. Fruits and vegetables provide vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support your overall health.

Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, strawberries and bell peppers. Eggs and fortified milk provide vitamin D. Almonds, sunflower seeds, spinach and broccoli offer vitamin E, while seafood, beans and whole grains provide zinc. Salmon, walnuts and flaxseeds are sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients help build your immunity.

Don’t forget to drink water. Staying hydrated supports normal body functions, so keep that water glass handy even when summer’s heat has cooled.

Put Some Fall in Your Step

When Wisconsin puts on its spectacular fall show, a walk outside adds fresh air, sunshine and scenery to your workout.

A walk outside gets your body moving, which supports circulation and immune defenses, while time spent in nature eases stress. That matters because chronic stress can interfere with your body’s immune response.

Sunshine helps your body produce vitamin D. As days shorten and outdoor time decreases, your vitamin D levels may dip. If you’re concerned about getting enough, ask your healthcare provider whether a supplement makes sense.

Give Sleep Its Due

One of the simplest things you can do for your wellbeing is sleep. Consistently missing quality sleep can impair your immunity and lower your energy, memory and concentration.

Help your body wind down by maintaining a regular bedtime, keeping your bedroom cool and quiet and limiting caffeine in the afternoon. A relaxing routine that includes reading, stretching or listening to music signals your body that it’s time to call it a night.

Stress Less, Connect More

Chronic stress can take a physical toll. When stress lingers, your body produces more cortisol, a hormone that can suppress immunity and, over time, make your body more susceptible to illness.

Many enjoyable activities can help you manage stress. Exercise, time outdoors, reading, gardening, meditation and favorite hobbies provide a healthy break from everyday worries. Staying connected with others is another important piece of the puzzle.

That’s where community living offers a built-in advantage. Capri’s activities, programs, and outings help you stay active, explore new things, and enjoy time with friends.

Add Prevention to Your Fall Checklist

Fall is also a good time to check in with your healthcare provider about vaccinations.

Vaccines become important with age because changes in the immune system can increase your risk of illness. Depending on your age, health and vaccination history, your healthcare provider may recommend vaccines for illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, RSV, shingles and pneumococcal disease.

Your doctor can tell you which vaccines are right for you and when to get them.

Remember the basics. Wash your hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes and give people who aren’t feeling well a little extra space. These hygiene practices can limit your exposure to viruses and bacteria.

Make Fall Your Healthy Season

Supporting your immune system involves little things you do consistently.

Enjoy colorful, nourishing foods. Move your body. Get outside. Prioritize sleep. Spend time with people who make you smile. Keep up with preventive care.

Capri Communities weaves many of these healthy habits into daily life through nutritious dining, fitness and wellness opportunities, activities, outdoor spaces and social connections.

Embrace the season and take steps to protect your immunity at the same time.