Cold Weather Safety for Seniors

The beauty of winter turns part beast when arctic air, icy conditions and mounds of snow prove particularly dangerous for older adults. To help seniors stay safe when the thermometer drops, even in the warmer climates of the country, follow these precautions:

Stay warm indoors. A comfortable thermostat setting in winter is 68° to 70° F. Seniors who feel chilled indoors might consider wearing thicker socks, fleece slippers and a thin, thermal undershirt and leggings.

Beware of slick outdoor conditions. Outdoor fall prevention includes these tips: wear nonskid boots, get help with snow shoveling and watch diligently for black ice.

Wear appropriate clothing outdoors. The elderly who venture into the cold should wear light, layered, loose-fitting clothing under an insulated, waterproof winter coat. A hat and weatherproof, lined gloves or mittens are also a must.

 Keep well-hydrated. Although the elderly may not feel as thirsty in cooler weather, drinking six to eight glasses of liquid a day is still advised. 

Ward off isolation and depression. To beat wintertime blues in the elderly, schedule regular outings, personal visits, phone calls and social networking. Staying connected with others helps trigger the body’s natural mood lifters including dopamine, serotonin and endorphins.

Be prepared for power outages and other emergencies. Every home needs a year-round emergency preparedness kit.

Other wintertime precautions for older adults include the following: stay current on immunizations, eat a balanced diet, and keep the car in top shape with good wiper blades and snow-gripping tire treads. In addition, Right at Home adult home care providers can assist with everything from companion care to driving the elderly to appointments, errands and wintertime activities. With safety steps in place, aging adults can enjoy more beauty in winter than beast.

 What winter safety tips do you practice with your senior loved ones?