​Winter Safety, Indoors and Outdoors
 
Let it snow, let it snow! Falling snow and icicles are pretty views through the window, but winter brings added dangers, especially for senior adults. Thyroid issues and diabetes can affect blood flow and body temperature. Parkinson's Disease and arthritis make bundling up more difficult. Older adults can lose body heat quickly.
 
If a senior gets too cold, it can become a dangerous problem before anyone knows what's happening. What can be done to keep seniors safe outdoors in the winter?
 

• Wear layers of clothing when going outdoors and cover exposed skin
• Always wear a hat or scarf to cover the head
• Change wet clothes immediately
• When going outdoors, take a cell phone and a buddy
• Avoid icy sidewalks and isolated spots

 
To stay warm and safe indoors during the cold months, senior adults should keep the room temperature between 68 and 70 degrees. If saving on heating bills is an issue, close off unused rooms, seal windows and close the drapes against drafts.
 

• Keep a throw blanket nearby to put over legs and feet when sitting for long periods
• Wear a cap or hat indoors, even in bed.
• Eat enough food to keep weight up. Drink moderately, if at all.
• Be aware that space heaters can be fire hazards
• Get up and move around when possible

 
In the coldest weather, especially when there is the possibility of power outages, check on your older neighbors and friends and ask them to check on you.
 
Kim Rayas
Residence 600
kim@residence600.com
www.residence600.com
600 E. Elm
Salina KS 67401
(785) 822-1300
 

​New Ways to Celebrate the Holidays
 
Traditional dinners and Grandma's secret recipes, football games and gift-giving can make special memories, but gratitude can be celebrated every day of the year.
 
Whatever your health or wherever you live, there are simple activities that you can do to make the holiday season special.
 

• Get out and enjoy! If you have a chance to get outdoors, do it! Nothing is more festive than sunshine on a new snowfall or the changing color of the trees. Watch for holidays lights and displays while you're getting a breath of fresh air.
• Watch a holiday special on television. At home or in an activity group, you can watch beautiful floats in a televised parade or enjoy a holiday movie. Best way to watch: with a friend!
• Write a thank you note. Even a short note can brighten the life of a hard-working meal service worker or a new neighbor. Many of our helpers are under-valued, but being told how they have helped you will be a wonderful gift.
• Make place cards. Even if you only eat with one person or a few, you can dress up the setting for the holiday season. They don't have to be expensive or store-bought-- seasonal stickers can be applied to simple folded notecards, or old greeting cards can be personalized and laid near the plates. Or let everyone make their own!
• Have a Friendsgiving. If you are hosting a family holiday meal or attending one at some relative's home, you can choose another day during the holidays to have a special "Friendsgiving." Provide simple snacks, have a potluck, or just gather around warm cups of coffee to remind each other than you are thankful for those special people who feel just like family.

 
Kim Rayas
Residence 600
kim@residence600.com
www.residence600.com
600 E. Elm
Salina KS 67401
(785) 822-1300