It’s Time for Seniors to Prepare for Winter -- Practical & Easy Tips to Assure a Safe Season

The fall season is very quickly coming to an end and soon the days will get shorter and colder.  Most susceptible to the drops in temperatures and the hazards of winter are senior citizens.  Now’s the time to prepare and take measures to assure that seniors stay healthy and safe all winter long.  With the proper precautions, seniors can live, walk, drive and safely enjoy even the harshest winter seasons.  

Here are a few tips to protect yourself from the hazards of cold winter weather:

 -          Proper Clothing - check out weather reports and forecasts, but be mindful that the temperature outside does not always reflect how the body feels.  Wind chill factors can make it feel a lot colder outside.  Dress in warm, dry clothes and layers covering as much skin as possible.  Always wear a hat, scarf and gloves to protect the head, neck and fingers! 

 -          Winter Driving – winter does not have to prohibit seniors from getting in their car.  First and foremost, get your car maintained in advance.  When cleaning off snow and ice from your car, be sure to take frequent breaks; cold weather can tire us very quickly.  Use a lightweight shovel to clear driveways and when driving, go slowly and cautiously.

 -          Avoid Slips and Falls – falling on ice is dangerous for everyone, but for seniors the risk is even higher.  It’s a good idea to wear non-skid boots.  If you use a cane, replace the rubber tip before it becomes worn to avoid slipping.  Keep salt or ice melt next to your door with a scooper you can easily manage so walkways around your home are clear of ice and snow.

 -          Home Protection – seniors should make sure to set their thermostats above 65 degrees.  Install programmable thermostats to regulate the temperature and save on energy.  Shutting off unused rooms will help keep lived-in areas of the house warmer as well as keeping energy costs down.  Also make sure your home is well insulated and seal any air leaks.  Avoid giving into the temptation of space heaters – they pose a dual risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning.  Have a battery operated radio for weather updates or other instructions to keep safe and prepare for power outages with a flashlight close at hand.

 -          Food and Medications - Store enough food and water in case travel becomes too hazardous.  Keep extra medications on hand; or make arrangements now to have your medications delivered.

 -          Keeping Active – cold winter months can make us all feel isolated and inactive, but for seniors it’s even harder.  Finding alternatives to outdoor exercise such as a gym membership or walking program at the local mall can really help.  If you have a computer, get online and share emails and photos with friends and family.  And it’s a great time to plan day trip excursions with at least one other person.

 Wintertime doesn’t have to be an inconvenience or a difficult experience for seniors.  With a little advance preparation and some loving care, seniors can enjoy the beauty and glory of the winter season.  For more information about programs and services to assist older adults in New Jersey, contact The New Jersey Division of Aging Services (DoAS) by calling toll-free at 1.800.792.8820 or visit their website at NJ’s Department of Health website.  For seniors who need financial assistance during the winter months, learn more about NJ’s Assistance Programs by clicking on this link.

 Wishing all a safe, healthy and joyous season.