Winter Weather is Serious Concern for Seniors
As severe winter weather impacts our area, residents are taking extra precautions against the plummeting temperatures, icy winds and snowy streets. For most of us, these precautions include extra time scraping windshields and wearing one more layer of clothes. However, please remember that severe weather is a serious concern for seniors. Families need take extra steps now to help their elderly loved ones feel safe and remain healthy this winter.
There are basic physiological differences that make seniors prone to health problems related to the cold. Older adults have slower metabolisms, so their bodies don’t generate heat as quickly as younger people do to withstand the cold. The elderly usually suffer from poor circulation, which means that their bodies have difficulty pumping blood to their arms, legs, hands and feet. This makes them more susceptible to hypothermia, frostbite and other common cold weather dangers.
During the winter months, our home care staff witnesses firsthand the additional stress cold weather brings to seniors who sometimes feel stranded by snow and cut off from family or friends. It is very important for families to take extra precautions to keep their loved ones safe and secure because many times, the elderly simply don’t or can’t take the necessary steps on their own.
The following tips can help your senior family member survive the worst of winter weather:
- Keep thermostat between 68 and 70 degrees – this may mean a small additional expense, but it’s necessary.
- Use electric space heaters to heat a small space, such as a bedroom or den. Use heaters with modern safety features, like an automatic shut-off. Keep the heater at a safe distance from furniture, curtains, bedding, etc.
- Dress for warmth by layering loose-fitting, lightweight garments. Tight clothes and long underwear can restrict blood flow if they do not fit correctly.
- Rather than relying on one thick comforter, lay extra blankets on the bed to help trap warmth between layers.
- Wear mittens instead of gloves – these keep hands warmer because the fingers touch each other and generate heat.
- Eat plenty and eat right – body heat is generated by burning calories. A senior’s body can quickly run out of fuel without the proper diet.
- Check rubber tips on canes or walkers and replace as needed. Tips can become slippery on snow, ice or wet surfaces and cause falls.
Most importantly, take a few extra minutes to check in on elderly neighbors and family members. Kansas City Home Care is there for our clients everyday regardless of weather, but the extra set of eyes can help ensure that our elderly have the help they need to stay safe, happy and healthy this winter.
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