The gentle drift of snowflakes falling may be beautiful, but the seemingly picturesque winter season can also pose some serious home safety hazards for older men and women. If you have an older loved one who is living in their home, use these four quick winter safety tips to help him or her remain safe for the duration of the chilly season:
- Prevent falls on ice. Falls are a major cause of injury among older men and women, and icy sidewalks, porches, and driveways can make it significantly easier for older adults to suffer a slip. Encourage your loved one to wear shoes with good traction and clear snow and ice from areas connected to your loved one’s home quickly to avoid ice accumulation. For indoor safety, consider installing a house elevator in Philadelphia to avoid falls on the stairs all year-round.
- Encourage a healthy diet. When you spend more time indoors because of the weather, you’re more likely to eat a smaller variety of foods. This can mean that your loved ones may be getting the nutrients they need. Preparing foods that are rich in Vitamin D (like fatty fish and whole grains) can help a loved one stay healthy during the winter.
- Prepare for power outages. Strong winds and sudden storms can cause power outages with little notice. Making sure your loved one has plenty of access to flashlights, batteries, thick blankets, and nonperishable food items can help them make it through a blackout safely.
- Keep them warm. According to the Center for Disease Control, senior citizens are significantly more vulnerable to cold temperature than their younger peers; more than half of all hypothermia related deaths are of people over the age of 65. Ensuring that your loved one wear warm layers and covers all exposed skin before going outside can keep them protected against the cold.
Every senior citizen wants to retain his or her sense of independence by remaining in their own home. Now, indoor elevators, stairlifts, and outdoor wheelchair lifts for the home in Philadelphia from 101 Mobility can make remaining in the home a safe option. To learn more about our currently available mobility devices, give 101 Mobility a call today at 215-987-4367.