Cold Weather Tips for Seniors
Just like everyone else, older adults feel cold during the winter months. What they may not realize is that staying cold can make them very sick. Older adults lose body heat at a faster rate than younger adults. Some may not even realize how cold they are due to physiological changes in the body. As a result, older adults can quickly experience hypothermia, a medical emergency that happens when the body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature.
Older adults should take precautions to prevent hypothermia and other cold weather-related illnesses. Visiting Angels Sheboygan has put together four cold weather tips for seniors to help them stay warm and healthy even in the coldest of Wisconsin winters.
Set the Thermostat to Safe Temperatures
It can be tempting to turn down the thermostat to save some money during the winter months. However, seniors should keep their thermostats set to at least 68 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Seniors looking to save a little on their heating bills can close off rooms that aren’t in use. Shut the vents and close the doors of those rooms. Prevent drafts by placing a rolled towel in front of the doors. Another way to save money is to ensure that the windows are tightly secured and aren’t letting the heat out. On extremely cold days, keep your blinds and curtains closed to keep the cold out.
Dress in Layers
Another cold weather tip for seniors is to dress warmly in layers. Even if you have no plans to leave your home, choosing clothes designed to keep you warm keeps you insulated. Start with a layer of lightweight thermal fabrics, worn beneath your outfit. On top, layer with a cardigan or sweatshirt that you can remove if you begin to feel too hot. Wear socks and non-slip slippers to keep your feet warm. Consider wearing a lightweight hat, such as a knitted woolen beanie, to prevent heat from escaping from your head. Wear a water-resistant winter coat when you need to head outdoors and always change clothes if they get wet while outside.
Ask for Help With Snow Removal
Snow and ice not only pose threats for falling for seniors but shoveling snow to clear the driveway and sidewalks can also cause injury. Seniors should take precautions by asking for help with snow removal. Ask a neighbor or family member that lives nearby to help you out. If you don’t have anyone nearby, hire a professional, such as CG Services or Serenity Farm Landscaping.
Be Prepared for Emergencies
Extreme cold weather and harsh snow storms can cause power outages or damage to your home. Our final cold weather tip for seniors is to be prepared for such emergencies. Designate a family member or friend whose home you can stay at should the power go out. Keep extra blankets and clothing you can layer where you can quickly access while you wait for someone to pick you up. Seniors should also consider backup heat sources, such as battery-operated space heaters, should the power go out. As another precaution, it’s a good idea to ask a family member to check in with you every day. For more winter weather safety tips, check out this article from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
Visiting Angels Sheboygan is here to help seniors this winter season. If you or an aging loved one is living alone and needs assistance, our compassionate caregivers can ensure you stay safe, healthy, and warm all winter long. We offer a comprehensive approach to at-home care. When it comes to home care, we don't believe in one-size-fits-all. We know that it's quite the opposite. At-home care is a deeply personal thing, which is why we make sure to match your services to your needs and fit them into your preferred schedule. Whether you need assistance running errands safely this winter or simply want a friendly face to help you stay engaged during the long, winter days, we’re here to help. Please contact us today by calling 920-221-1000 so that we can learn more about your situation.