Quick Tips for Keeping Seniors Safe This Winter

When temperature drop and the roads get icy, it can be enticing to snuggle under the covers for the whole winter. But although the cold season may not be pleasant for anyone (sled rides excluded), winter weather can be particularly dangerous for the elderly, caregivers and seniors alike need to be prepared and winter-smart to avoid the risks of cold, ice, and electrical issues. Luckily, with just a little bit of planning and caution, you can make sure that the seniors in your life are prepared to handle anything the winter throws at them and your elderly loved ones can know the right steps to take to stay safe and healthy all season and hire a home health care specialist.

Prevent falls and slips

Those icy patches can be tricky for everyone. But for seniors, any slip or stumble can lead to serious injury, from hip and wrist fractures to head trauma, lacerations, or even bad bruising that limits mobility. Luckily, you don’t need to stay inside to prevent a slip (but if the weather is very bad, an evening at home can be a good idea!). To handle ice and sleet safely, make sure your loved one has winter shoes with good traction and non-slip soles, and if they use a cane, replace the cane tip for best use.

Prepare for outages and storms

Snowstorm blackouts may be exciting for the kids, but lack of electricity or downed power lines can lead to harmful situations for seniors. Prepare for limited travel ability or blackouts by creating a disaster kit of needed supplies and food to keep on hand. Your kit should include non-perishable food and water for several days, as well as a manual or battery-operated can opener, and battery-powered flashlight, a radio, and extra batteries.

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