Winter Safety Tips for Seniors

To maintain safe and healthy habits with seasonal changes

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Seniors have a higher risk of medical challenges because in the winter months they are:

• More sensitive to cold

• More deficient of vitamins

• Bones become more brittle

• More likely to have a weakened immune system

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10 Tips for Staying Warm and Safe

1. Limit the Use of Space Heaters

2. Wear Safe Shoes—Slippers, Non slip (ice)

3. Keep the Kitchen Stocked—Food, water, tea, hot chocolate

4. Keep an Emergency Kit- First Aid, flashlight, whistle

5. Be Aware of the Warmth- At least 68 degree thermostat

6. Eat a Healthy Winter Diet- Be aware of vitamin deficiencies

7. Monitor Your Home's Carbon Monoxide- risk of poison increases in winter

8. Avoid the Wintertime Blues- Daylight savings and winter cold can lead to an increase in mental health struggles- feelings of lonliness, isolation, etc

9. Prep Your Car- Tune up brakes, tires, battery, etc. Refer to previous blog for winter safety driving tips

10. Set up Regular Check- Ins With Your Loved Ones- Support and connection are vital to combat winter blues and isolation in the winter months

HOW TO STAY COMFORTABLE:

• Helpful "must-haves" checklist

  • Blankets

  • Warm Clothing

  • Medication

  • Hand Warmers

  • Mild Movement (if possible)

  • Walking Assistance

  • Heater Maintenance

  • Candles

  • Moisturizer

  • Warm Socks/ Slippers