Winter can be a challenging time for seniors. Make sure your loved ones are safe and healthy with these five essential winter safety tips for seniors.
1. Have an emergency kit on hand.
Every senior should have an emergency kit in case of a winter weather emergency. The kit should contain essential items like flashlights and batteries, non-perishable food items, bottled water, a first aid kit, blankets, and extra clothing, and medication supplies. It’s also a good idea to keep an up-to-date list of contact information for family members and other important people.
2. Check for fire safety and make repairs if needed.
You should check fireplaces and wood stoves regularly for safety. The chimney should be inspected for obstructions and routinely cleaned. All combustible materials (including furniture cushions, drapes, and rugs) should be safe from the heat source. Make sure there are working smoke detectors in each room, with new batteries installed twice a year whenever time changes occur. Install carbon monoxide alarms on each level of your family member’s home.
3. Ensure adequate heating and insulation in the home.
One of the winter safety tips for seniors is also to make sure they have adequate heating and insulation in the home. Have all furnace filters serviced regularly to keep the home’s air quality healthy, and check windows and doors for any air leaks. In addition, check on your family member to ensure they are actively layering clothing and blankets if necessary, as well as keeping their head covered for added warmth.
4. Monitor medications during cold weather changes.
Medication often affects individuals much differently in cold weather than in warmer temperatures. Therefore, it is essential to keep an eye on your senior’s medications and visit your doctor for any new or concerning symptoms. Additionally, check with your pharmacist for possible interactions between different medicines that can occur when taking them in colder temperatures.
5. Dress appropriately when going outside in cold temperatures.
Dressing in layers during winter can also ensure safety for seniors. However, avoid wearing heavy clothing that may clamp off your blood circulation and limit movement. Also, ensure your outer layer is waterproof and windproof to protect against rain and snow. Include winter accessories such as mittens, a hat, a scarf, and insulated boots or shoes to keep warm. Lastly, be aware of the “Feels like” temperature when factoring in wind chill to know how cold it is. This can help you decide what clothing you need to stay comfortable outdoors.
Are your senior loved ones alone at home? If you worry about their safety—not only during the winter season—you can always hire an in-home caregiver to provide care. Contact Surework Home Care Solutions now.
