Help protect seniors and elderly during winter months, cold and flu season

When winter temperatures drop significantly below normal,
staying warm and safe can become a challenge, especially for
elderly. There are several factors that can put the elderly at
risk during winter storms and lengthy sub-zero periods such
as unexpected power or heating system failure.
Exposure to cold temperatures, whether indoors or outdoors,
can cause serious or life-threatening health problems. The
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and
Comfort Keepers have provided these tips for seniors to
remain safe during the cold weather season. Other dangers to
consider are icy sidewalks and cold and flu viruses.
Through the proper precautions, winter doesn’t have to
confine seniors to their house. They can enjoy these months
safely by taking additional care and caution. Follow these tips
to protect against illness, body heat loss, and other potential
winter-related problems.
• Be cautious with space heaters – Do not place a space heater
within three feet of anything that may catch on fire, such as
drapes, furniture, or bedding, and never cover your space
heater. In addition to being a fire hazard, space heaters may
also increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Consistently check the temperature – Older adults often
make less body heat because of a slower metabolism and
less physical activity. When over 65 years of age, it is
important to check home temperatures often especially
during severely cold weather. The thermostat should be
set to 65 degrees to prevent hypothermia. This will also
prevent freezing pipes. Often times, seniors will turn the
heat down to save money on their monthly bill. Caulking
or plastic sheets can be used to protect windows and keep
the warm air inside the house and bring peace of mind to
seniors worried about their energy bills.
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors –
CO can be a very dangerous gas emitted by fuel-burning
heaters and appliances. Seniors’ bodies can’t dispose of
carbon monoxide as quickly as younger adults. Check to
make sure all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors work
within the home.
• Eat nutritiously – Eating well-balanced meals will help
seniors stay warmer. Also, alcoholic or caffeinated beverages
can cause body temperatures to drop more rapidly
(regardless of age). Even though the heat may be gone, it is
still important to drink at least six to eight glasses of water
a day. This can help prevent dry skin problems as well as
dehydration. A senior’s body isn’t as tough as it once was.
It is more important for a 70-year-old to stay hydrated than
a 30-year-old. continued on page Safety precautions – If a cane is used to assist in walking, be
sure to replace the rubber tip to prevent falls. When driving
in the winter be sure to get the car tuned up, keep the gas
tank near full and check to make sure the car has good tires.
• Dress appropriately – Be sure the outer layer of clothing is
tightly woven, preferably wind resistant, to reduce body-heat
loss caused by wind. Using wool, silk or polypropylene as
the inner layers of clothing will hold more body heat than
cotton. Mittens are warmer than gloves because your fingers
produce heat when they are touching. Wear a hat to protect
against heat loss through the head.
• Take breaks during outdoor winter tasks – Many forget
how much energy it takes to shovel snow in the driveway or
walkway. The cold weather during the winter months can put
added strain on the heart. It is important to warm up the
body prior to these chores and take frequent breaks to
prevent any problems or injuries.
• Keep a water supply – Have an extra supply of water stored
in clean containers, or purchase bottled water (up to five
gallons per person) in case water pipes freeze and rupture.
By preparing a senior’s home for the winter months and taking
the necessary safety precautions, you can reduce the risk of
weather-related health problems. If you know elderly persons
who are unable, for any reason, to prepare for extreme
cold-weather conditions, they should stay with family members or go to available shelter.Drink plenty of replenishing fluids – Alcoholic beverages
and caffeine should be avoided since they can cause
dehydration. Water is a great option, but does not effectively
replace the potassium and sodium (electrolytes) that are lost
during perspiration. Popular sports drinks such as Gatorade
and Powerade are great choices for rehydrating the body.
Always be on guard for symptoms of heat exhaustion, which
include pale, cold or clammy skin, extreme thirst, lightheadedness,
fainting, mild nausea, vomiting, and excessive
sweating. Signs of heat stroke include hot, dry skin, a fast,
strong pulse, confusion, and a body temperature of 104 degrees
or higher. If a person exhibits signs of heat stroke, this is a
serious medical emergency and 911 or your local emergency
medical team should be contacted.
The good news is heat-related illnesses and injuries are
preventable. If seniors understand the signs and are aware of
the symptoms, they can beat the heat this summer season. To read more, go to www.comfortkeepers.com