Winter Safety and Wellness: Tips for Loveland Seniors
Changing seasons can bring a few extra challenges for seniors. Slippery sidewalks, cold temps, and darker days can all pose safety risks. But if your loved one is like most older adults in Loveland, they’re not going to let that stop them from getting out and enjoying their community.
Essential Winter Safety Advice
The following suggestions can help older adults have a safe, yet active winter season in the Front Range, despite frigid weather.
Stay Warm Indoors & Outside
Hypothermia is a serious concern for seniors, with roughly 20 percent of exposure-related injuries occurring inside the home. Additionally, certain conditions and medications can affect a senior’s ability to maintain a normal body temperature. Because of this, the thermostat in a senior’s home should always be kept at a minimum of 68 degrees. They might also need help with weather-proofing their home if the windows and doors have air leaks.
Staying warm while going outside is even more important. Seniors should always dress in layers during cold weather, starting with lighter base layers like long underwear and adding layers like sweaters, coats, gloves, etc., to protect heat loss from extremities. It might sound a bit alarming, but we consider it to be proactive. Don’t forget to ensure any seniors with their own transportation have a stockpile of warm blankets in the car, along with an emergency kit.
Prevent Falls
Many seniors are already at risk of falling due to mobility issues. The harsh winter weather significantly increases the chances of slipping on ice or tripping over debris blowing around or under snow. To prevent falls, clear walkways of snow and ice, and ensure seniors wear non-slip shoes or boots when walking outside. If using a mobility aid, add an ice grip or anti-slip attachment to enhance stability.
Avoid the Winter Blues
Dark evenings, inclement weather, and limited outdoor time can all impact mental health. Take care of yourself during this time by staying connected to friends and family members and engaging in indoor activities, like classes at the Chilson Senior Center. Additionally, make it a goal to stay hydrated and eat plenty of vitamin D-rich foods to make up for reduced exposure to sunlight.
Have a Winter Emergency Plan
Extreme winter weather can cause power outages and limit your access to healthcare and other services. Sign up for weather alerts to stay informed of upcoming snow storms or freeze warnings. Keep an emergency kit on hand that includes non-perishable food, water, medical supplies, and first aid items. Have the name and contact information of at least one neighbor who can check in with you during these weather events, and consider giving someone you trust a key to your home.
For further advice, FEMA offers a Disaster Preparedness Guide for Older Adults.
Related Reading: You can read more about Common Winter Hazards Among the Elderly in one of our past blogs. We go into greater detail there with suggestions to keep your loved one safe in the cold weather.
Visiting Angels Supports Winter Safety
If you could benefit from having companionship and extra help with household tasks this winter, Visiting Angels Loveland can help. Our compassionate caregivers will provide personalized support to keep you secure and comfortable, including safe transportation to appointments, medication management, healthy meal preparation, and maintaining a clutter-free home environment.
To learn more about our non-medical home care services, contact us today at 970-292-5668.