Winter Safety Tips for Seniors

Winter can be rough! More accidents and sickness happens during this time of year than any other year due to the bitter cold temperatures and icy roads and sidewalks. To be sure that you take all the necessary precautions to stay safe this winter we have prepared a list of winter safety tips just for you!

Stay Warm when you are Outside

It is important that you wear multiple layers during this time of year to prevent sickness and even frostbite if the temperatures get that low. Being outside in temperatures or windchills of -15 degrees Fahrenheit for long periods of time make your more vulnerable to frostbite. During these bitter cold temperatures, it is suggested that you stay home and stay warm if at all possible.

Snow and Ice

With snow and ice making it more difficult to travel and even walk outside we are more prone to experience an accident during this time. If you are shoveling snow it is important to push the snow instead of lifting it to prevent injuries. Also, if you are over 40 years old it is recommended you do not pick up a snow shovel without a doctor’s permission.

Slip and fall accidents due to ice are also a big reason for injuries during the winter months. Ice makes it hard to drive and walk, so we must take the necessary precautions during these few wintery months.  Be sure to walk slowly, have a friend escort you so that you are not alone, and always carry your cell phone in case you fall and cannot get up.

Heating your Home

Unfortunately, most house fires occur during the winter but there are things you can do to help prevent such tragedies from happening.

Be sure to buy and install smoke alarms for every room in your home. It is also very important to make sure to test the alarms monthly to ensure they are working properly. If there are children or elderly people in your home be sure to practice your fire drills.

Space heaters, fireplaces, using your stove or oven to heat your home could be causes for a house fire. Be sure to keep space heaters three feet away from anything that could burn, and do not leave them on when you leave the room, are sleeping or are simply not home.

Winter can get us down, but we do not have to stay down! If you are looking for independent living, assisted care, long-term living, or rehabilitation services be sure to give us a call at (937) 319-8924.