As the snow begins to fall this year, it’s a time to appreciate the beauty and be cautious, especially as seniors. While the snow can be beautiful and bring nostalgic memories, it also brings challenges, including cold weather and slippery surfaces. In this blog post, we’ll explore how seniors can enjoy the snow while prioritizing safety and staying warm.
Dressing for the Cold:
Layer clothing, wear insulated and waterproof boots, and don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf. Seniors have an increased risk of getting frostbite due to poor blood circulation so it’s important to bundle up. You could also consider using disposable hand warmers if you are going to be outside. These are all important steps to help keep the body warm and prevent frostbite.
Slip-Prevention:
Flat footwear with rubber soles can prevent slipping on ice, along with using handrails and walking slowly. It's important to be prepared for these situations by having bags of salt in your home. If you do not have access to salt you can use sand or cat litter as an alternative. These aren’t as effective but it can be helpful to sprinkle on slippery spots.
Walking Poles:
Another great precaution is walking poles. Walking poles, in general, can reduce the stress being impacted on your knees, hips, and ankles while relieving pain from arthritis, muscle strains, and ligament sprains. In the snow, they can help secure your balance and prevent falls.
Shoveling Safely:
If you choose to shovel, it’s essential to do so carefully. Take frequent breaks, lift with the legs (not the back), and use a lightweight shovel to minimize strain. If there is going to be a lot of snow it's suggested to shovel every couple of inches to help lessen the load and give yourself breaks. If you can, try shoveling when the snow is fresh so it’s easier and doesn’t stick as badly. Instead of lifting the snow and risking straining your body, try pushing the snow.
Hydration and Nutrition:
Stay hydrated and eat warm, nutritious meals. Avoid alcoholic beverages after being outside in the cold. Alcohol delays shivering and reduces its duration increasing the risk of hypothermia. Nutritious meals can help maintain a healthy immune system and help control inflammation, cholesterol, heart disease, and mobility.
Warmth Indoors:
Indoor activities:
Seniors can indulge in indoor activities such as reading, knitting, or puzzles, to keep them occupied during these times. This is also a great time to catch up with friends and family over the phone or on Zoom. Baking a warm treat or learning a new recipe can be a fun and rewarding activity.
Joining an Online Bookclub:
While you are stuck in the house it’s a great time to catch up on books. You can join an existing book club or make your own. Some ideas could be to make a group with some of your friends and encourage them to add their friends. Everyone can pitch in book suggestions and set a time when everyone is free to meet on Zoom. To spice this up you can have themes, such as pajamas, and have your favorite snack with you.
Preparedness:
Staying Connected:
Regularly check in on senior neighbors, friends, or family members during snow storms to make sure they are okay. Engage with neighbors outside shoveling and build new friendships. This is the perfect time to get together with neighbors, you’re within walking distance and can keep each other company. Loneliness can be as much of a challenge as the cold.
Emergency Kit:
Prepare an emergency kit with essential items such as non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, portable chargers, a first aid kit, and necessary medications. Other important things to have on hand are an ice scraper, salt, shovels, and snow gear.
Enjoying the Snow Safely
Seniors can still enjoy the joy of winter while prioritizing their safety and keeping warm. With the right precautions, a snow day can be an opportunity for cozy indoor activities and catching up with friends, and family, or even tasks you’ve been pushing off.
BrightStar Care® is Here to Help
At
BrightStar Care® of Greater Chester County, we offer a wide range of home care and medical staffing services that enrich the quality of life for those who need care from the comfort of their home. We strive to provide the full continuum of care to our community while keeping our focus on offering a higher standard of care. Proudly serving the Greater Chester County area, we offer our clients and their loved ones the care and support they need, along with the compassion they deserve. Offering unparalleled support for our local healthcare system while providing a variety of high-quality, compassionate care, we work to give our clients the best lives possible while also strengthening the broader community.
Contact us through our website or call 484.715.0197, so that we can help you find the right support to fit your unique needs.
