Winter Safety, Indoors and Outdoors | Best Senior Living in Salina

​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