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Cold Weather Safety for Older Adults

Two older adult couples talking with each other on a walk in cold weather

Older adults have a higher chance of being affected by cold weather.  Hazards of cold weather for seniors often include falls on wintry surfaces, or injuries caused by frost bit and hypothermia. Following are some top health tips for seniors in winter weather:

  1. DRESS FOR WINTER: Wear layers! Layering warm clothing keeps in body heat. Also wear warm socks, insulated boots, hats and gloves
  2. STAY HYDRATED: Drink lots of water, try for 8 glasses per day.
  3. PLANNED ACTIVITIES: Plan activities for earlier in the day.  Try to plan activities before sunset, as seniors are more apt to fall during darkness, and extreme cold is dangerous.
  4. WAKING IN BAD WEATHER: There are many options available for purchase to put on shoes, making it easier to walk in slippery conditions.  Walking aids should also be used, and always take it slow.  
  5. INDOOR TEMPERATURE:  Indoor temperature should always be comfortable, ideally it should be 68 to 72 degrees, and never under 65.  Again, layering clothing will help keep body temperature warm. It is also advisable to use draft stoppers on doors, and to seal doors and windows.
  6. NUTRITION: About 40 % of older adults experience vitamin D deficiency during the winter months.  Good nutrition and a well-balanced diet are more important this time of year. Seniors should be encouraged to stock up on nutritious foods before winter storms. 
  7. EXERCISE: Seniors should find ways to exercise during the winter months.  The body will benefit from some form of exercise, approximately 20 to 30 minutes per day is suggested.  If the weather isn’t bad, take a walk. Indoor exercise can include chair yoga, resistant band workouts, walking in place, or balance exercises.  
  8. GUARD AGAINST WINTER ILLNESS:
  1. Get vaccinated.  Flu and pneumonia shots are crucial for seniors. 
  2.  Washing hands frequently helps prevent germs.  
  3. Stay warm. Cold temperatures lower body immunity.  
  4. Get enough sleep. Seven to nine hours per night is recommended for older adults. 
  1. HOME SAFETY: Older adults should be prepared for heating and power outages. Heating systems should be checked.  Prepare an emergency kit with a flashlight, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable foods.  A phone should be kept close. Plan for grocery deliveries if possible.
  2. LIMIT ALCOHOL AND CAFFEINE: These can cause dehydration, which can be dangerous to older adults in the winter. 

If an older adult is having a hard time paying heating bills, there are resources that may help.  In Missouri, the Low Income EnergyAssistance Program (LHEAP) may be able to help.  It also offers weatherization and energy-related minor home repairs.  An application can be obtained by calling: 1-855-373-4636.

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