Winter Safety Tips For Seniors

Recent history has proven that Chicago winters can be brutal, and this year is predicted to be no different. Power outages are not uncommon during this time of year, and that takes elevators and land line phones out of service. Seniors can easily become stranded on higher floors with no electricity, no food and no way of communicating with us during that time.

At Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, we take winter safety precautions seriously when it comes to the older adult community. Although we keep tabs on our older adult community through meal delivery and patient pick-up services, it is still critical that seniors and their families begin taking the necessary steps now to ensure a safe season.

Get a cell phone – If you don’t already, get a cell phone to use in the event of an emergency. Not only will it allow family members to check in, it also provides a way to call for help if the power goes out.

Earlier:

Have “emergency” food on hand – Stock up on food that won’t spoil for at least a few days, in the event that a severe storm shuts down all travel on local roads. Keep in mind that a power outage will render an electric stove or microwave useless, so choose food that is easy to prepare.

Buddy up – Designate a neighbor in the building or on the block who will check up on you regularly and call a family member on your behalf if you can’t.

Invest in an emergency response system – In the event of a fall, these systems send out a first responder alert. This is especially important to have for any seniors who attempt to walk outside around their homes or buildings by themselves.

Anticipate emergencies – Check the weather every day and recognize when severe weather is imminent. Make sure to have enough necessary medications on hand and avoid driving when a storm is expected to hit during the day.

Keep supplies within reach – Prevent injuries by storing a flashlight in a drawer that’s easy to get to. Keep blankets on lower closet shelves or dresser drawers.

Resist the urge to shovel – Before the snow hits, call your senior center, police department, local boy scout troop or church to arrange for someone to shovel for you.

Dress in layers – If you must go outside, stay warm with two to three layers of looser fitting clothes, a hat and mittens—they are warmer than gloves. Wear a scarf that covers your neck and lungs.

Know when to go inside – When you begin to shiver, it is a sign that your body is losing heat.  Go inside or take shelter to avoid frostbite and hypothermia.

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