Winter Safety For Seniors
Being in the middle of January, the winter season is now in full swing. With icy cold winds, flurries, slippery floors and roads, and hidden patches of ice, there are a number of hazards that await people outside during the winter season. Here are some winter safety tips for seniors to help you avoid incidents and to stay safe during the cold!
1. Prevent Hypothermia and Frostbite
Seniors are particularly vulnerable to hypothermia and frostbite. A few things can be done to prevent this. When indoors remember to keep the temperature up, and not let it dip too low. Use lanterns, gas heaters and/or fireplaces to keep the heat in the home up.
When going outside, dress accordingly! Wear warm socks, a heavy winter coat, and layers of clothing underneath, a warm hat, gloves and a scarf. If the temperatures are very cold, make sure to cover exposed body parts, and use a scarf to cover your mouth and protect your lungs.
2. Watch for Ice and Falls
Icy and snowy conditions increase the risk of falls, which can cause serious injuries. When going outside make sure your shoes/boots have good traction, and if you have a cane, make sure the tip is replaced or specific for ice/snow conditions. When inside take off your outdoor shows immediately. Once the snow and ice on your shoes have melted inside, they bring the slippery conditions inside. When walking, look for sidewalks that are dry and clear, and see if you can get someone to do the shovelling for you. ALWAYS watch your step when walking in winter conditions and try to be safe.
3. Winter Driving
Make sure your vehicle is adequately serviced and ready for the winter driving. If possible, avoid the roads until they are clear. You can find more driving tips on our blog on winter driving.
4. Avoid Being Isolated
It can be very tough to avoid being isolated in the winter. As more people stay indoors there are less opportunities to interact and socialize with friends and family members. To avoid this, have family and friends check up on you regularly. Communicate to people though the internet or by phone. You can also come out to Mosaic events this winter to meet other members of the Mosaic community!
5. Prepare for Power Outages
In case of a power outage, make sure your house is prepared. Have easy access to flashlights, and a battery-powered radio. Keep warm blankets ready for use. Make sure you have a supply on non-perishable foods. If the power goes out make sure to dress up and move around to keep your body warm.
6. Eat a Varied Diet and Keep Healthy
With cold weather and being indoors all the time, people’s eating habits often change during the winter season. It is important to keep active and to keep eating healthy. Make sure you are eating the right foods, and taking your needed supplements. You can find more information on nutrition from our nutrition blog from a few months ago.
During the winter months, seniors need to be more careful and prepared than in other months. By preparing properly for the wintery season seniors can successfully navigate the cold, icy months of the year. We hope that you can use these tips to stay healthy and safe during this time of year.
And some more useful information from:
http://www.seniors.gov.on.ca/en/seminars/docs/WinterSafetyTips.pdf
