Safety Tips for Seniors Handling Winter Weather

MediNurse, St. Louis’ premier provider of private duty nursing care and health related services for four decades, reminds the public that during the winter months, ice, snow and cold temperatures tend to make life challenging, especially for seniors.

The following tips will help keep you safe during the cold season:

• Avoid slipping on cold surfaces. While younger people often recover quickly from a slip on the ice, older adults can face life-altering complications. Stay indoors until roads and sidewalks are clear. Wear shoes with good traction and non-skid soles. Replace a worn cane tip to make walking easier. Remove shoes indoors so melting snow won’t lead to slippery conditions where you may fall.
• Dress for warmth. Cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia, a condition where the body’s temperature dips too low. Dress in multiple layers. If you are going outside, wear warm socks, a heavy coat, hat, gloves and a scarf. In very cold temperatures, it’s imperative to cover all exposed skin; however, for skin that is exposed, don’t be fooled by the cold and make sure to use sunscreen protection.
• Do not turn off the heat in your home to save money. If you’re worried about your electricity bill from having your heat on, talk to your utilities company to negotiate your bill or to find out if subsidies for seniors are available.
• Get your car checked for safety and serviced regularly. Make sure the car mechanic checks your fluid levels, tires, battery and wipers. Consider enrolling in or renewing your AAA membership just in case of auto emergencies.
• Prepare for power outages. Make sure you have access to flashlights and a battery-powered radio. Stockpile warm blankets and keep a supply of nonperishable foods that can be eaten when cold. If the power does go out, wear several layers of clothing, including a hat, until your heat is restored.
• Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Using a fireplace, gas heater or lanterns can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Be sure to replace the batteries in your carbon monoxide detector every year and/or buy an updated unit if needed.
• Ask for help. If you need to clear your property of snow or ice, ask a family member or neighbor, or consider hiring a professional. Arrange rides to the grocery store and doctor appointments. Help is out there; don’t be afraid to ask for it.

MediNurse is St. Louis’ premier provider of private duty nursing services. MediNurse provides services that are customized to the individual needs of the client or patient and loved ones to ensure the best care possible. For more information, call 314-781-2800 or visit www.medinurse.com.