Help Seniors Safely Navigate Winter Weather

Seniors are more susceptible to the cold and icy conditions characteristic of winter. Slips, falls, and hypothermia become significant risks as temperatures drop. Family caretakers like you play a critical role in ensuring that seniors navigate winter hazards safely. We're here to help caretakers prepare and protect their loved ones during the cold winter months. Read on to learn more!

Preventive Measures to Avoid Falls and Injuries

Falls are the leading cause of injury among the elderly, and ice presents an additional hazard during winter. Proper footwear is one of the best preventive measures to help seniors navigate winter.

An ice-free path is a safer path. Clear the path with a shovel or use a de-icing product ASAP to melt ice on sidewalks, driveways, and areas seniors walk to prevent ice buildup.

You might also consider installing handrails in key areas. Sturdy handrails on staircases and along slippery surfaces provide much-needed support and balance for seniors in icy conditions.

Prepare Seniors for Cold Exposure

Beyond preventing falls, part of helping seniors navigate winter is to prepare them for cold exposure. Seniors are more prone to hypothermia than younger adults. Here are a few ways to keep them nice and warm:

Winter Clothes

Dressing appropriately for the weather is a simple step with significant impacts. Layering clothing provides warmth and allows seniors to remove layers if they become too hot indoors. Include an outer layer that's waterproof, and don't forget essentials like warm hats, gloves, scarves, and thermal socks.

Winterize Their Home

Inspect the senior's home to make sure it's winter-ready. Eliminate drafts, add new weather stripping and caulk, have the furnace and chimney inspected, replace smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries.

Learn About Hypothermia

Be familiar with the signs of hypothermia, which can occur even at relatively mild temperatures if a person is wet or not properly dressed. Symptoms can include shivering, confusion, and a weak pulse. If you suspect hypothermia, seek medical attention immediately.

Have a Storm Plan in Place

Here are some tips to help independently-living seniors navigate winter to handle an emergency:

Make sure they have both a cell phone and a landline, preferably one in each major room.
Have emergency contact information next to the phone.
Be sure seniors have a safe backup source of heat should the power go out.
Have a snow-clearing service on standby for heavy snowfalls, if not all winter.
Make sure your senior's vehicle is in good shape and fitted with winter tires and snow chains. Ensure that the heater is in good condition.
Regularly check in with them or arrange for a nearby friend, neighbor, or caregiver to drop by.
Arrange with a neighbor to help clear your loved one's vehicle of snow after a heavy snowfall.