Winter Weather

How's the weather where you live?

By Annette Beach

According to the calendar, winter is officially upon us. It began last week and will be with us for the next three months – Ugh!

The arrival of Ole Man Winter is a bitter/sweet for me; more bitter than sweet. While I appreciate the beauty of a fresh, crisp snowfall, I do not welcome the cold.

As I sit here by the fire, typing this blog, the snow is falling outside of my windows. It began a short while ago. The large flakes have already created a white blanket completely covering the ground and the trees are outlined with snow on every branch. It is absolutely gorgeous!

It is picture perfect scenery that I will enjoy for about two weeks. Then I want it to be warm again.

The winter season confines me and limits my activities more than any other time of the year. It is the season that reminds me of the things I cannot do rather than the things I can do.

Arthritis alone limits mobility, making every task a challenge. But when joint replacements, fusions and reconstructed limbs are factored in, the challenges increase. Having limited range of motion, decreased strength and the need for adaptive equipment makes the equation even more complicated. Then add icy, slippery conditions, and the combination becomes high risk.

Entering the cold is a dreaded chore for me. Having to dress in layers to stay warm means more bending and wiggling into and out of clothes. Not too mention the need for coats, boots, hats, scarves and gloves every time I go outside. The putting on and the pulling off motions require my hands and arms to strain, doing more work than they are capable of.

The thought of venturing outside into the snow is far more exciting than the reality of actually doing it. Typically the first big snowfall of the year, I act like a child and can’t wait to go outside to play. But the moment I take the first step onto the snow-covered driveway and feel the slickness underneath me, I am reminded of the dangers of falling and the excitement is withdrawn. From that moment on, every step is focused and cautious.

Playing in the snow can be fun, especially when it involves motorized toys. The first adventure of the season is always the best because I don’t think about the consequences until the next day. Then I have regrets.

People often ask if the weather affects my arthritis. I can honestly say, it is not the cold per se that bothers me. It’s what accompanies the cold.

How would you describe the winter season where you live? Does the weather have an impact on how you feel? Are you able to play in the snow or do you have limitations due to an illness?