7 Winter Safety Tips for Seniors

There are a few easy-to-follow safety tips for seniors that can help you prevent accidents this winter. Here’s what senior home care Seattle caregivers recommend to help you, or a loved one living with dementia, stay safe and independent this season. 

1. Avoid going outside when it’s icy.

Although this may seem obvious, it’s a great way to prevent ice related falls. If you know that a storm has blown through and the sidewalks are slick, don’t try to take care of it yourself. There’s almost certainly someone in your family or neighborhood who would be happy to help ensure that your sidewalk is cleared. If you’re really on your own, consider hiring a senior home care Seattle caregiver who can help you with small tasks around your house. 

2. If you must go out, do so responsibly.

Sometimes you can’t avoid going outside when it’s icy. In those cases, make sure you’re wearing shoes with traction, that you’ve replaced your cane tip if it’s old, that you’ve had someone clear and salt your pathway, and that you’re not venturing out on your own. 

3. Understand heightened risk factors for hypothermia.

One of the best safety tips for seniors when it comes to preventing hypothermia is to understand if you have an increased risk. If you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes or a thyroid problem, you may have an increased risk of hypothermia. It may be difficult for people with Parkinson’s disease, arthritis or memory loss to get dressed appropriately for the temperature, which means they may need more assistance during the winter months. Finally, certain medications can increase your risk of hypothermia, so talk to your doctor about your current medications to ensure that you understand the risk. 

4. Look for signs of hypothermia in yourself and others.

According to the National Institutes of Health, hypothermia presents itself as “slowed or slurred speech, sleepiness or confusion, shivering or stiffness in the arms and legs, poor control over body movements or slow reactions, or a weak pulse.” If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 and try to raise the person’s body temperatures using hats, extra clothing and blankets until help arrives.

5. Don’t try to save on the electric bill.

Although it may be tempting to be frugal with your electric usage during the winter months, you may be exposing yourself to a higher risk of hypothermia by trying to save a few dollars. Set your heat between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit at the very least. Insulate drafty windows and doors during the winter months. Close off vents and doors in rooms that aren’t being used to focus the warm air to the parts of the house that are actually being used. Senior home care Seattle experts warn that you can get hypothermia in your own home, so be careful. 

6. Dress for cold temperatures.

Whether you’re in your home or going out for the day, make sure you’re dressing for the cold weather. Wear long sleeves, long pants and socks indoors. Layer with insulated layers when you go outside. Always wear a hat outdoors and consider wearing a hat when you go to sleep. Thermal underwear is a great way to layer during the day and while sleeping. 

7. Have someone check on you during the winter months.

Due to the additional hazards during the winter months, make sure you’re having someone check on you regularly. Guests will be able to tell if your house is too cold, help to remind you to dress in layers, and do additional chores for you. Having a senior home caregiver drop in during the cold months can be really helpful when family and friends are unavailable. You may also want to look into local care management services that offer assistance by trained experts. Care management teams can provide services like trips to the store, wellness checks and company to help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with seasonal depression.