Senior Care – Staying Safe in Winter
Whether or not you believe in global warming, one thing is certain: half of the country suffers dramatic cold for many months each winter. Over the last few years, winter storms have been quite severe. Those who choose to live in climates where winter means cold, snow, ice, and darkness, understand the incredible beauty and magic that each winter brings. They are also aware of the many challenges that the season brings. For seniors, many of these challenges are compounded, but with proper planning and support, even winter's greatest challenges don't need to put a damper on your loved one's enjoyment of winter.
There are a few things that we should all be aware of in wintertime, but seniors should pay special attention to each:
Falling risks increase with snow and ice. Dr. Stanley Wang of Stanford Hospital notes, "Falls are a common occurrence for senior citizens, especially during the winter months. Often these falls cause major injuries such as hip and wrist fractures, head trauma and major lacerations." In addition to wearing proper footwear, cane tips should also be checked. Adding traction devices to outdoor footwear is also wise. …show more content…
Because seniors often suffer from limited mobility, stepping up and down is not always the fluid movement it used to be. This often leads to one foot slipping out while ascending or descend a step. Parking lots are dangerous because warm footwear placed on snow or ice when getting out of the car can cause just enough melting to cause the foot to slip. This is particularly dangerous when bringing in groceries or carrying other items because the occupied arms are not able to help break the fall. Again, traction devices added to the outdoor footwear can make a significant
Whether or not you believe in global warming, one thing is certain: half of the country suffers dramatic cold for many months each winter. Over the last few years, winter storms have been quite severe. Those who choose to live in climates where winter means cold, snow, ice, and darkness, understand the incredible beauty and magic that each winter brings. They are also aware of the many challenges that the season brings. For seniors, many of these challenges are compounded, but with proper planning and support, even winter's greatest challenges don't need to put a damper on your loved one's enjoyment of winter.
There are a few things that we should all be aware of in wintertime, but seniors should pay special attention to each:
Falling risks increase with snow and ice. Dr. Stanley Wang of Stanford Hospital notes, "Falls are a common occurrence for senior citizens, especially during the winter months. Often these falls cause major injuries such as hip and wrist fractures, head trauma and major lacerations." In addition to wearing proper footwear, cane tips should also be checked. Adding traction devices to outdoor footwear is also wise. …show more content…
Because seniors often suffer from limited mobility, stepping up and down is not always the fluid movement it used to be. This often leads to one foot slipping out while ascending or descend a step. Parking lots are dangerous because warm footwear placed on snow or ice when getting out of the car can cause just enough melting to cause the foot to slip. This is particularly dangerous when bringing in groceries or carrying other items because the occupied arms are not able to help break the fall. Again, traction devices added to the outdoor footwear can make a significant