Winter Safety for the Elderly

Winter is almost here, and with cold weather comes safety risks for elderly individuals. Between icy paths and freezing temperatures, it can be important to help your older loved ones stay safe in the winter. Below, we will discuss important safety tips for your elderly family members this season.

Slips and Falls

During the winter, ice can create hazardous walking conditions outside. Seniors already have an increased risk of slipping and falling. Icy surfaces can make slips more dangerous and a fall more fatal. Ice can affect a surface, even if people don’t see it. Make sure your loved one has sturdy shoes with good traction. Canes and other walking aids can also reduce fall risk. 

Hypothermia and Frostbite

Hypothermia and Frostbite are common health issues this time of year, especially for elderly individuals. As you age, it becomes harder for your body to regulate its temperature. This can put them at a higher risk of developing hypothermia. Frostbite occurs when parts of the body are exposed to extreme cold over time. This most often affects the face and extremities. Help your loved one bundle up for the cold when they go out. Gloves, a hat, a scarf, and a winter coat can help reduce the risks of frostbite. 
Hypothermia doesn’t just occur outside. Because many elderly individuals have lower extreme temperature resistance, they can sometimes experience it inside the home. To help prevent this, ensure their thermostat is set above 65 degrees throughout the season. If more temperature control is needed, provide them with warmer blankets, or sweaters. Slippers and house shoes with good traction can be helpful to reduce falls in the home while keeping their feet warm. Space heaters can be dangerous without taking the proper precautions, and should not be used overnight. 

Reducing Driving Time

Generally, elderly individuals suffer from worse vision and slower reaction times than younger adults. In the winter, this can be especially dangerous when driving. Shorter days mean fewer daylight hours for driving. Many elderly individuals struggle with driving at night or during dusk because it can be harder for them to see. Slower reaction speeds mixed with icy or snowy road conditions can put your loved ones at severe risk of a car accident. Help your loved one avoid driving during poor weather conditions, and avoid driving at night when possible. 

Sickness in the Winter

It is more common for the elderly to get sick with colds, the flu, or COVID-19 during the Winter. Help your loved one take precautions to avoid getting sick. This may include wearing masks or staying home when they feel ill. Have them talk with their doctor about possible shots or boosters to help them limit infection. If you are feeling ill, limit your physical visits with your elderly loved ones. And encourage other family members to do the same.

Mental Health and The Winter

Many elderly individuals suffer from declining mental health as a result of isolation and the limiting factors of aging. However, in the winter, this can be even more rampant. Cold weather and shorter days mean less access to social situations which can benefit their mental health. Furthermore, Seasonal Affective Disorder (seasonal depression) can take effect. SAD is often the result of reduced Vitamin D intake, which often comes from sun exposure. Be sure to look for signs of depression among your elderly loved ones. 

For over 50 years, Matthew Funeral Home has been serving the Staten Island community. We can help with almost every aspect of your loved one’s memorial service. Our family is here to serve yours, every step of the way.