What Should Seniors Do to Stay Safe When There is Snow and Ice on the Ground?

Staying safe on ice and snow is not always easy, especially for seniors that often already struggle with mobility issues. Handling unusual winter weather can be more problematic in areas that are rarely cold enough to experience it at all.

Here are five things to keep in mind if the San Antonio area experiences slippery weather this winter!

Dress in Layers 

Wearing several layers can go a long way toward helping seniors stay warm on colder days. This can boost their overall comfort level in this type of weather. Seniors may not need a heavy winter coat in the San Antonio area. However, layering a lighter jacket, sweatshirt, and long-sleeved t-shirt can make a significant difference when the temperature dips below freezing.

Not being as cold can also make it easier to concentrate on walking slowly and carefully. This can help improve seniors' grip on slippery surfaces and reduce their likelihood of falling. 

Prioritize Traction 

Investing in a sturdy pair of shoes or boots that offer good traction is a simple, but essential, step in minimizing slipping. Seniors may not get as much wear out of their winter shoes as someone that lives further north. However, choosing a pair designed for colder climates can improve their ability to effectively grip surfaces that are harder to walk on. 

Have a Plan for Managing Slippery Surfaces

Know what to do about snow and ice on your property before you need to. This allows you to take care of it before it becomes a problem. Shovels, salt, and other snow and ice removal products can quickly become difficult to find in Texas once a rare need for them arrives. This means that keeping them on hand is still a good idea in warm climates.

It can also be helpful to find a family member, neighbor, or friend that will be able to handle shoveling and carrying salt or sand for seniors if they are not physically able to do so before cold weather occurs. 

Avoid Known Slippery Areas 

Seniors should also avoid areas that tend to be especially slippery. This can typically apply to a warm area that is less equipped to handle it. Many walking paths along the San Antonio River and the Riverwalk tend to get particularly slippery in cold weather, as well as many of the area's bridges and shady parts of parking lots. 

Know Local Policies 

Knowing the responsibilities of handling snow and ice that may impact others is a must. Shoveling or salting public sidewalks adjacent to a senior's property is an important step in making walking safer for everyone. However, it is a good idea to pay attention to the temperature when doing so. Seniors should avoid staying outside too long if they do not have sufficiently warm clothing.

Driving slowly and leaving more space than usual in between cars is also crucial. It is best to avoid driving at all until the weather warms up. It is also a good idea to have an adequate homeowners insurance policy that will protect seniors in case someone slips and falls on ice on their property. 

Senior Helpers Can Help Make Navigating in Winter Easier

At Senior Helpers of Greater San Antonio, we know that staying safe on ice and snow can be challenging for seniors in the San Antonio, Helotes, Alamo Heights, Kerrville, Castroville, Converse, Floresville, La Vernia, Von Ormy, and Poteet areas.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help seniors live safely with their preferred level of independence at any age!