Help ensure seniors stay warm in the winter months with an extra blanket, a warm coat, scarf and gloves if they must go outside.
Freezing temperatures in Florida. Artic air sweeping down to Cuba. Snow in Mexico. Even snow and cold temperatures here in the Greater Richmond area.
Much of the country has been in the grip of a surprisingly cold winter this year. Cold weather is hard on everyone, but it can be especially hard on seniors. It’s a good idea to keep a close eye on elderly relatives, friends and neighbors when it is so cold.
In general, it is best to encourage Seniors to just stay out of the cold. Ice and snow can be dangerous for those with poor eyesight or balance, and broken bones can be seriously detrimental to a Senior’s health. Help Seniors by running errands for them — like picking up groceries and prescriptions. If they must get out, volunteer to drive, and help them safely in and out of their destination. Add rubber tips to walkers and canes to increase stability.
Another problem for Seniors is frostbite and hypothermia — elderly people are more susceptible to hypothermia because they don’t always realize they are becoming cold. Seniors should keep their home well heated and dress in layers to stay warm, and add a hat and gloves to their jacket if they must go outside. Symptoms of frostbite include numbness and a white cast to the skin. Hypothermia is signaled by confusion, sleepiness, reduced breathing and heart rate, and extreme shivering.
Other tips to help Seniors include keeping space heaters at least three feet from furniture and draperies, and making sure railings are secure. It can be hard to drink water when it’s cold, but Seniors should try to remain well-hydrated at all times.
If you need assistance caring for a senior especially during the winter months when the cold weather can be a challenging time for staying warm and safe, please call for a free no-obligation consultation with Home Instead Senior Care of Richmond at 804.527.1100. Our CAREgivers can help check on your elderly loved one and can help run errands, set medication reminders or simply help them get around both in and outside the home.
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