The Dangers of Elderly Seniors in Cold Weather
During the winter months, cold weather can make life a bit challenging for everyone, especially for Santa Clarita seniors. Slips and falls, hypothermia, and depression all become more prevalent as the temperature drops. The key for a senior to remain safe is prevention. If you are a caregiver for an elderly loved one, then taking the necessary precautions can help ensure they have a happy, healthy and issue-free winter.
Ensure the Elderly are Dressed for the Cold
If a senior goes into the cold temperatures without the proper clothing, they are at risk for hypothermia and frostbite. This is a condition when the body temperature drops to a dangerous level. According to research from the CDC, more than half of the hypothermia related deaths result in people who are over the age of 65.
The key to fighting the effects of cold temperatures is to dress in layers inside if heating is insufficient, or cranking up the heat if possible. If you are planning on going outdoors, make sure to wear winter essentials:
- Warm, thick socks
- Heavy, lined coat
- Scarf and gloves
- Hat and earmuffs
If the temperatures are extremely low, which is rare in Santa Clarita but still possible, be sure to cover any and all exposed skin for protection. A seniors (or anyone else’s) body temperature should never fall below 95 degrees, if this occurs, be sure to seek medical attention right away.
Protect a Senior’s Skin
As you age, your skin will become drier and thinner, which means it is more susceptible to tearing. Also, there are certain medications that can make thin and already fragile nasal tissue tear more easily, causing nosebleeds. To reduce the potential of issues associated with this drying, use the following tips:
- Keep the air in rooms moist. If possible, add a humidifier to the heating unit, or purchase a stand-alone vaporizer or humidifier. Another option is to put a pan of water close to a heat source, such as your radiator.
- Keep your skin and body moist. Be sure to drink water and other fluids and eat food that has a high water content, such as vegetables and soups.
- Moisturize often. Use lotions and cream to keep the skin moist and use petroleum jelly and other nasal lubricants to protect the nose’s lining.
Take Steps to Prevent Senior Depression
While depression may not be a physical danger, it can leave seniors sad and feeling alone during the winter months. This is mainly because relatives are not able to visit as often during the cold weather. To help a senior avoid these feelings, family members should stop by as often as possible, or hire a caregiver to provide company.
While cold weather is not as impactful in Santa Clarita as it is in other parts of the country, temperatures can still drop, creating dangerous situations for many senior residents. This is when caregivers from Comfort Keepers can help. Along with the tips here, you can ensure your senior loved one is well-cared for and able to make it through the colder months, happy and healthy.
Comfort Keepers
23900 Lyons Avenue
Santa Clarita, CA 91321
661-287-4200
