You Don’t Have to Hibernate This Winter
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, it can become harder to stay active and prioritize wellness, especially for people living with disabilities. Cold weather often brings additional challenges, from limited outdoor mobility to increased risks of illness. But with a few intentional steps, it’s possible to stay healthy, strong, and energized all season long.
The Arc of Washington County in Canonsburg, PA is committed to supporting people of all abilities in building healthy, independent lives. That’s why they offer resources and activities, including Adaptive Exercise Classes led by Eruption Athletics, to help participants stay moving and connected even in the coldest months.
Keep Moving, Even Indoors
When it’s chilly outside, it can be tempting to stay curled up under a blanket. But regular physical activity helps boost immunity, improve mood, and maintain strength and flexibility. For people with disabilities, staying active also reduces the risk of secondary conditions like stiffness, poor circulation, or weight gain.
The Arc of Washington County partners with Eruption Athletics, a team dedicated to making fitness fun, safe, and accessible. Their Adaptive Exercise Classes use creative, modified workouts to engage participants of all abilities. The classes are designed to build confidence, increase mobility, and encourage a lifelong love of fitness.
Classes are held at the Arc Human Services headquarters in Canonsburg every Tuesday from 5:30 to 6:30 pm and Thursdays from 10:30 to 11:30 am. Anyone interested can sign up by visiting ArcHumanServices.org/events.
Support Your Immune System
Cold and flu season is no joke, especially for those who may already manage chronic health conditions. To give your immune system the best defense:
Eat nutrient-rich foods such as colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Stay hydrated. Dry indoor heat can be dehydrating, so make sure to drink water regularly.
Get enough rest. Quality sleep helps your body recover and stay resilient.
Don’t skip preventive care. Seasonal flu shots and other recommended vaccines can offer important protection.
Prioritize Mental Wellness
Dark, cold days can sometimes bring feelings of loneliness or the “winter blues.” Staying socially connected and mentally engaged is just as important as physical health. A few ways to care for your mental well-being include:
Join group activities like adaptive exercise classes to enjoy movement and companionship.
Stay connected virtually with friends and family through video calls, games, or online support groups.
Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or guided meditation to help reduce stress.
Seek support if feelings of sadness or isolation become overwhelming. Reaching out to a counselor or trusted health professional can make a difference.
Create a Safe and Comfortable Home Environment
Winter weather can increase risks around the home. Keep these tips in mind:
Bundle up properly with layered, weather-appropriate clothing when heading outside.
Watch for slippery surfaces on ramps, driveways, and sidewalks. Use salt, sand, or non-slip mats.
Maintain indoor air quality by using humidifiers and keeping filters clean.
Ensure emergency preparedness, such as having flashlights and medications accessible during a power outage.
Stay Engaged and Inspired
Healthy living isn’t only about avoiding illness, it’s also about joy, purpose, and connection. Try exploring new hobbies indoors, like the All-Abilities Art Classes hosted at The Arc of Washington. Finding fun ways to stay active and involved can brighten the winter months and build lasting routines for wellness.
At The Arc of Washington County, the goal is to help people of all abilities live with greater independence and health. But we can't offer these free classes without your support. If you’d like to become a member of The Arc of Washington County, or make a donation, as well as sign up for classes, visit our website at ArcHumanServices.org.
“We provide them with a catered lunch, and a full day of music and dance and food and fun. It’s a big day of celebration to say thank you to the consumers we serve for trusting us with their care and to do right by them.”
After that is the No Limits Adaptive Fitness Challenge in Erie, August 23. "This is really special to us because you can't find it anywhere else," Johnson said of the event that is celebrating its 5th anniversary. He explained that rather than have separate events for separate levels of ability in this challenge, everybody in the heat works out side-by-side. "Everybody is included. We have adaptive devices and people there to help with accommodations. It's personalized; we meet you where you're at."
Rounding out the summer events is the Washington golf outing at Lone Pine Country Club September 8. "A wide variety of sponsors returns every year, and it's nice to know people are still investing in us in times like these when every dollar counts. That's why these fundraisers are so vital."
Johnson concluded, "As a nonprofit, we understand that people take part in many different annual fundraisers each year, because it's an organization that's near and dear to their hearts. I hope that as people get to know us, we become one of those organizations as well."
For more information, call 724-223-5115 or visit vficil.org