Weather
We’re all different when it comes to the amount of time that we spend out of our houses. However, we do know that our gender, race and age play a significant factor in our decision to go outdoors or not in adverse weather conditions.
Rain - This is fairly obvious, but most people don’t like going out in the rain. We see a significant reduction in people heading outdoors when it’s raining. Women, in particular, are less likely to head out when it’s raining, as are those over the age of 65.
Excessive outdoor temperature - Generally, we’re more active when it’s mild outside. If it’s too hot or too cold, we’ll tend to avoid taking excursions. Older men in particular struggle with freezing temperatures. And excessive heat can cause significant lethargy, particularly for those of us that are carrying a few extra pounds.
Reduction in sunlight - Seasonal Affective Disorder occurs frequently among people who live under constant cloud cover or reduced sunlight in the winter. Although SAD can affect anyone, women seem to experience this type of depression more than men. Symptoms include irritability, concentration issues, changes in sleeping and eating habits, lethargy and loss of interest in once enjoyable activities.
Ice & snow - Icy and slushy surfaces are one of the biggest barriers to outdoor activity for us all during winter, particularly for people with mobility or frailty issues. Most people reduce their excursions because of a fear of falling on slippery paths and pavements, and many get anxious about cold and snowy weather.
Household temperatures
Did you know that living in excessively cold temperatures raises your blood pressure? Blood vessels constrict to maintain body temperature and control heat, and your blood pressure rises because there’s less room for the blood to move through the circulatory system. If you're already managing high blood pressure, it’s important to make sure that your living environments stay warm during the colder months.