How to Help Seniors Stay Safe and Healthy in Cold Weather

Puffy, white, fresh-fallen snow makes the landscapes of Southwest Oklahoma City look like a winter wonderland. However, that same wintery weather can pose health and safety risks to local seniors. Hypothermia, slip-and-falls, and health issues make winter especially dangerous to older adults.

Luckily, there are many steps Southwest Oklahoma City seniors can take to stay warm, comfortable, and safe all season long.

3 Ways Southwest OKC Seniors Can Stay Safe in the Winter

Here are three ways seniors can enjoy the cold months while protecting themselves.

1. Health and Wellness

Though the weather outside is frightful, it’s still important for seniors to stay active and eat well-balanced diets. Nutritious foods and exercise support seniors’ overall health and boost their strength, flexibility, and agility.

There are plenty of physical activities seniors can perform indoors. Some indoor exercises for seniors are yoga, Pilates, dancing, Tai Chi, and chair exercises.

It’s also essential for seniors to stay properly hydrated. And when it’s cold, it may be harder for older adults to tell when they need to drink. Seniors should aim to consume six to eight glasses of fluids per day. Set an alarm on your phone or keep a water bottle next to your bed or couch as a reminder to drink water.

2. Utilize Local Resources

Being cooped up inside all day doesn’t do anyone any good. Luckily, there are many warm, cozy places seniors can visit for free in their local community. One option is visiting the nearest Pioneer Library System to browse books or attend a book reading. Seniors can also swing by their local community centers. There are always fun, senior-friendly activities at these community hubs, and the library and community centers are available in multiple locations across the area.

Want to stay at home? If so, it’s essential to keep your house efficiently heated. If keeping your house warm enough in cold weather is a challenge on your budget, research utility assistance programs in your area to see if you qualify. They can help you to keep your home heated without spending a fortune. One option is to apply for the Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This federal program offers assistance paying for home energy costs for households that qualify based on income. If you miss open enrollment for this program, there is a year-round program available for emergency energy situations that you might qualify for: Energy Crisis Assistance Program (ECAP).

3. Hire an In-Home Caregiver

Lastly, seniors may benefit from hiring an in-home caregiver. In-home caregivers, like the ones from Visiting Angels of Southwest Oklahoma City, can help seniors run errands like picking up groceries or prescriptions, cook healthy meals, and monitor health and safety to support their overall well-being.

Working with a Caregiver from Visiting Angels Southwest OKC

Visiting Angels of Southwest Oklahoma City is proud to assist seniors throughout Southwest Oklahoma City, Moore, Norman, Mustang, Union City, Blanchard, Tuttle, and Newcastle. Our award-winning caregiving solutions are personalized to each client’s preferences and health needs. We can help seniors stay safe and sound all season long, and our caregivers have experience with winter-specific needs.

Contact us today at (405) 703-7676 to learn more.