It is cold!!

More cold weather is forecast as winter is definitely not over yet. We have listed a few safety tips for seniors and their loved ones to consider.

Cold weather can be a great worry to older people. Not only does it pose many health risks, but avoiding cold weather and the fear of falling on icy streets can keep people in their homes, increasing the risk of isolation and loneliness.

Keeping warm is so important and can therefore potentially be at risk of developing poor health due to being cold. Our CAREGivers are there to help their clients and will try and ensure they are as comfortable as possible, wearing the correct clothing, doing any cooking, shopping and so on as required.

Here are a few tips for cold weather and the risks it poses that you can consider:

Staying Warm

Wear several thin layers of clothes, instead of one thick layer. The warmth from your body is trapped in air pockets formed between each layer.
Keep a throw or blanket handy to cover your feet or shoulders. A fleece material is particularly effective as it is incredibly warm but lightweight and less bulky than other materials.
Wear fleece slippers around the house to keep your feet warm.
If you can’t heat all your rooms, make sure you keep your living room warm and heat your bedroom before going to bed.
Close curtains to keep draughts out and keep doors closed between each room.
Eat at least one hot meal a day. Soup is warming, extremely nutritious and inexpensive to make.
It is important to be prepared in case of an emergency. Make arrangements for assistance in case of a power outage. Keep important numbers in an emergency kit, along with non-perishable foods, water and medications.
If you are cold at night try sleeping in socks, go to bed with a hot water bottle and keep a flask with a hot drink beside the bed.
If you are heading outside wrap up warm, with special attention to your head, fingers and mouth.
Be sure to keep in contact with friends and family, whether it’s a phone call or popping round.

Preventing Falls

Take a couple of minutes each day to stretch your limbs to loosen muscles.
Stay inside – make arrangements for someone to shovel and salt your driveways and walkways nearby.
Wear shoes or boots with a non-skid sole.
Have handrails installed on outside walls for frequently used walkways.
If you use a cane or walker, check the rubber tips to make sure they are not worn smooth.

Winter weather can take a toll on everyone, especially seniors. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) can occur in seniors and impact their emotional health. Some signs to watch for with SAD include: a loss of energy, an increased appetite and an enhanced feeling of lethargy and tiredness. If symptoms are present, talk to your doctor about treatment options.

Please share these tips with your older neighbours and loved ones and remember to wrap up warm and if you have your own tips please get in touch!