Autumn has passed with its glorious colors and pleasantly crisp temperatures, which means that winter is upon us. While cold temperatures and snowfall can make winter a cozy and comfortable season, it also is full of potential dangers for seniors. Here is what you need to know about staying as safe as possible this winter.
Snow and Ice
Winter weather means that snow and ice are often inevitable. While it might look beautiful while watching large snowflakes fall from the comfort of your warm home, the snow and ice can cause increased fall risks around the outside of your house.
In order to stay as safe as possible, consider these tips from our experts:
Cold Temperatures
In addition to the snow and ice, winter weather includes frigid temperatures. When the weather becomes freezing outdoors, seniors can end up making decisions that lead to poor health outcomes. Here are a few items to check on before the winter weather takes a turn for the worse as well as tips for staying warm indoors.
Here are safety tips from our experts:
Unfortunately, seniors who are on a fixed income can sometimes wait for too long to turn on the heater in order to avoid higher energy bills. Unfortunately, this can lead to frozen pipes and other home maintenance issues in addition to feeling cold and stiff. Seniors should also avoid using space heaters as they have been proven to increase the risk of a house fire.
Nutrition
Winter weather can keep seniors indoors for longer stretches at a time, which can mean less access to fresh produce and food. However, the winter season is when our bodies need immune-boosting foods to keep us as healthy as possible.
Here are some tips for ensuring your nutrition doesn’t miss a beat during the wintertime:
Health and Wellness
Cold weather and snowy conditions might keep you from visiting your physician or getting the follow-up assistance you need to stay as healthy as possible. You can decrease your risk of missing appointments or skipping medications by planning ahead.
Here are tips from our team that can keep you healthy and well this winter:
Socialization
Perhaps one of the biggest drawbacks to winter weather for seniors is that the poor conditions can increase isolation at home. Seniors who are isolated at home are more likely to feel lonely, which can lead to increased depression and anxiety, decreased immune system, and even more rapid cognitive decline.
You can stay connected to family and friends in the midst of the winter by:
The Benefits of Legend Senior Living
The winter season can feel cold, dark, and overwhelming for many seniors. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend this season alone. Instead, choose to invest in a retirement lifestyle that is designed to keep you healthy, happy, and connected with others.
Legend Senior Living residences offer you just what you need this winter and beyond:
Here, you won’t have to worry about what is happening outside. Instead, you will feel comfortable and connected indoors with your friends.
Learn More About Legend Senior Living and Schedule Your Personal Visit!