Winter Warming for Seniors

As the cold weather approaches, you will start to feel that winter chill. The windows may rattle and the cold breeze may come through your back door, even when it’s closed. These are signs of the chilly draft stealing your heat and making it harder to get warm!

It is important for older adults to prepare for the potential risks that cold weather can bring. For all the seniors out there experiencing winter right now, it may pose a number of risks. As winter creeps closer, there are much higher incidences of injury and illness due to icy or wet pavements, cold and dry air, flu viruses and in some rare cases, hypothermia.

Seniors should keep these tips in mind to help ensure safety and optimum health this winter:

- Older adults are more susceptible to hypothermia (even though it is rare), which occurs when too much heat escapes the body. It is important to dress very warmly and keep dry, but it is also important to remember good nutrition. Food provides the fuel we need to keep warm. Hot food and warm drinks, like soups and hot chocolate, are best to warm the body from the inside.

- When going outdoors, remember to dress warmly. Wear layered, loose-fitting clothing and gloves. When possible, wear a hat top protect heat loss. It’s a fact that close to half of all body heat is lost through the head.

- You can prevent winter hazards simply by planning ahead. Before winter gets here, check all your windows and doors for cracked or worn seals. In emergency cases, you can just staple a sheet of plastic tarp over a really old window.

- To avoid slips and falls, wear non-slip/skid boots or any other shoes that have plenty of traction. Also ensure that you wear warm, winter boots and thick socks to keep your feet from getting too cold.

- Cold weather can put a lot of extra strain on the heart. When doing winter chores, always do some warm-up exercises first and take many breaks.

- When you use a portable heater, plug the heater directly into an outlet – don’t use an extension cord! Make sure the outlet and the wiring are in good condition. Keep the area around the heater clear of any furniture, newspaper or any other flammable materials and take special care to avoid tripping over cords.

These simple tips will help seniors to be completely safe and healthy this winter. So, plug up those drafts, bundle up, and increase your chances of staying healthy!

At Pinelands Grove Retirement Village, we offer you healthy living and wellness in a safe, secure environment. A new way of living is created in this vibrant community establishment, where you can enjoy the finer elements of life!