Winter has arrived, and the temperature is dropping quickly. The colder months can be difficult for seniors as extra challenges may be presented to them. Freezing temperatures, snow, and slippery conditions are all common difficulties that seniors may encounter. To make sure you’re prepared for a safe and warm winter, utilize the following tips.
Combat Heat Loss in the Home
Once it starts to get cold outside, you may notice drafty areas in your home. Common areas for drafts include windows, doors, and fireplaces. Start by assessing your entire house, even the areas that are unoccupied. If you notice any drafts coming through, you’ll want to take action quickly to avoid any unnecessary heat loss. If you notice that your doors are drafty, look into using a draft stopper. A draft stopper, also known as a door snake, can be a quick fix for drafts in your home. These can be bought at a store, or you can DIY your own. If you’re noticing drafts in other areas such as windows, you can purchase window insulation kits from any hardware store. This is another great quick fix that can help you keep the cold out, and the heat in.
Avoid Slippery Falls
Winter weather is something that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Snow and ice can create dangerous conditions in and outside the home that may lead to falling. According to the Center for Disease Control, about one in four adults ages 65 and older report falling each year, so it’s important to be prepared. One of the best ways to avoid falls is to make your entryway accessible. Having an entryway that is safe and practical will lower your chances of suffering a fall. Utilizing ramps, handles, and proper lighting will allow you to safely go in and out of your home during these months. Some seniors may even opt for ramps that use high-traction materials to prevent slipping. These home modifications can end up being pricey for some homeowners. If you’re a senior who is in need of these home improvements, look into using your home’s equity to help pay for these projects. You will receive the funds in a lump sum, making it an easy alternative way to afford these projects and complete them before the harsh winter arrives.
Monitor Indoor Temperatures
Throughout the colder months, it’s crucial that you pay extra attention to the temperature in your home. A study by Age and Ageing found that it only takes 45 minutes for a room with lower temperatures to have a negative effect on seniors. You should aim to keep your home between 65°F-78°F in order to stay safe and comfortable. Additionally, seniors are more at risk for hypothermia, so it can be beneficial to dress warmer than usual even while indoors. Blankets, slippers, and sweaters can help you stay warm and cozy when the temperature drops.
Schedule Home Deliveries
To avoid going out in the cold, have your groceries delivered right to your door. When the weather takes a turn for the worse, grocery deliveries can be scheduled ahead of time to make sure you have everything you need. From food, to medication, and personal items, these services can help you when you’re in need. Companies such as Grubhub, Instacart, and Amazon Fresh are all good options if you’re looking to get your groceries delivered. For something more convenient, there are services that can deliver frozen meal kits which make cooking every day simple and quick. Furthermore, mail-order pharmacy delivery services can also be beneficial to seniors who frequently take medications. Delivery services are a trouble-free option for seniors during the winter.
Hire a Snow Removal Service
Hiring a snow removal service is highly recommended since removing snow and ice can be very strenuous and dangerous for seniors. Shoveling snow can lead to slipping and even muscle strain, so opt for a snow removal service that can keep you safe at home. You’ll want to do your research on local services to determine the best fit for your needs. Compare prices and the specific processes used to make sure the services will work best for you. It can be helpful to talk with neighbors about which service they use during the winter. Some companies even offer deals for neighborhoods making them a cheaper option. Overall, hiring someone else to remove the snow and ice can bring you peace of mind throughout the season.
Winter months can be long and frustrating for some older adults. Staying safe and warm should be made the top priority when the temperature starts to drop. To stay warm at home, it’s important that you keep an eye on indoor temperatures and take care of any heat loss in certain areas. Additionally, making sure you’re limiting any factors that can lead to falls such as ice and snow can keep you healthy and strong during this season. And lastly, invest in services such as food delivery and snow removal to make your life more comfortable and convenient.
Written by: Kayleigh O’Reilly, Smart Strategies Staff
