Winter can be a wonderful time of the year, but it can also be especially dangerous for older adults. Protect yourself and understand how the cold affects the Seniors in your life by following these winter weather safety tips.

Stay Hydrated – Dehydration is not just a concern during the summer months. Older adults are already at risk because they naturally have less water in their bodies. They may also be taking medications, such as blood pressure that flush the water from the body and cause additional risks.

Protect Your Skin – Over time, skin becomes thinner, drier and more fragile. Winter weather can take a toll on aging skin, causing cracking and bleeding. Older adults need to use moisturizing cream regularly, which is especially effective after bathing when the skin is most absorbent.

Bundle Up – As we age, our bodies become less effective at regulating heat which puts Seniors at an increased risk of developing hypothermia, a dangerous condition that can occur when the body’s core temperature dips too low. When outdoors, older adults should dress in multiple layers of clothes to include a hat, scarf, coat and gloves.

Monitor Indoor Temperature – Keep in mind that older adults can become hypothermic indoors. The National Institute on Aging recommends setting the heat to at least 68-70 degrees F. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can assist eligible low-income Seniors with their energy costs. Layers of clothing are recommended for inside warmth and comfort, as well.

Be Smart About Space Heaters – Space heaters can provide much-needed warmth during colder months, but it is so important to maintain them properly. Inspect the power cord for fraying, get rid of any damaged devices and keep space heaters away from any flammable materials.

Use Caution with Electric Blankets – These must be used with caution to avoid burns, electric shocks, and even fires. Any electric blanket that is more than a few years old, needs to be replaced, preferably by a version that has an automatic shutoff feature.

Avoid Slips & Falls – Falls are the leading cause of fatal injuries among older adults and that number increases when icy conditions are added to the mix. During the winter months, those Seniors venturing outside of the home should wear sturdy shoes or boots with good traction and non-skid soles and only walk on pathways clear of snow and ice. Remove shoes immediately, upon returning home, to prevent slippery conditions inside from lingering snow and ice that might attach.

 

HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE
7058 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA 22003
703) 750-6644
www.homeinstead.com/location/624/

(In the Annandale Shopping Center at Gallows Road) 

 

 

Home Instead Senior Care
7058 Columbia Pike, Annandale, VA  22003
703-740-6644   .   www.homeinstead.com
(In the Annandale Shopping Center at Gallows Road)

ABOUT:  Home Instead is the largest provider of Home Care services with locations across the United States, Canada, and Europe.  Our local Southern Fairfax County franchise is the largest in Virginia and has an outstanding reputation in serving our community for over 15 years. 

Our Team works closely to schedule and provide services from companion care, light housekeeping, laundry, organizing closets, changing bed linens, transportation, watering plants, cooking, and preparing meals to physical assistance such as helping you to walk, groom, shower, dress, use the restroom or change incontinent products, assist in feeding, provide medication reminders, and some nursing services.   

We find it a privilege to enhance and support our community members who need assistance, whether it is for 4 hours a couple times a week, or around the clock care.   We are located next to Silverado Restaurant at 7058 Columbia Pike in Annandale and can be reached 24 hours a day at is 703-750-6644.