Winter weather can be challenging for seniors, as cold temperatures can cause or worsen health problems. During this season, be mindful of the impact of harsh weather and take steps to protect elderly loved ones.
Winter Can be More Hazardous for Seniors
Older adults who live independently in their homes may still try to take on outdoor chores such as yard work, home repairs or walking their dogs. However, seniors are vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia. Some age-related health conditions make it harder to recognize when their body is becoming too cold. For example, diabetes interferes with blood flow and warmth, thyroid conditions can affect body temperature regulation, and those living with dementia may neglect to dress appropriately.
In addition, snow and ice can create dangerous conditions that lead to devastating falls.
Quick Tips for Coping with Winter Weather:
- Avoid going out on windy, cold, or damp days.
- If you must go out, be sure to take your mobile phone in case of emergency.
- Dress appropriately and wear:
- Warm, loose layers of clothing.
- Waterproof outerwear.
- A hat, scarf, and gloves or mittens. Consider using disposable or rechargeable hand- and foot-warmers.
- Change out of damp clothes quickly.
The Impact of Cold Weather on Arthritis
It’s true: creaky joints really can react to cold temperatures. Medical experts say that human joints function best in mild, temperate weather. When it’s cold out, the synovial fluid in joints thickens, making movement more difficult, while drops in barometric pressure can put stress on muscles and tendons. Because of these negative effects, those living with arthritis and other joint problems may be at greater risk for falls during the winter.
Quick Tips for Coping with Arthritis Flare-Ups
- Stay as warm as possible. In addition to staying indoors, use warming blankets or take a warm bath.
- Avoid walking too quickly and wear non-skid footwear.
- Try to move and stretch; sitting too much can worsen stiffness.
Cold Weather and Dry Skin
In low temperatures and low humidity, skin loses its ability to retain moisture and can become itchy and rough. Because aging skin is thinner and more fragile, dry and cracked skin can raise the risk of skin injuries for seniors, including skin tears, damaged blood vessels, bruises, pressure ulcers, sores and infections. These injuries can be serious, as wound healing is believed to take four times longer for an older person than for a younger person.
Quick Tips for Treating Dry Skin
- Apply moisturizer immediately after a bath or shower.
- Use ointments or creams, which are a richer consistency than lotions. Look for fragrance-free, gentle products.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration increases the risk of skin injury.
Senior Heart Health During Cold Weather
Research has shown a link between environmental temperature and heart health. In frigid weather, the heart works overtime to prevent hypothermia. Outdoor activities, like shoveling snow, can cause the heart to pump too hard. In addition, people with existing heart conditions like coronary heart disease often report chest pain when they’ve been outside in cold temperatures.
Quick Tips for Heart Health in Cold Weather
- Dress warmly to avoid hypothermia, which poses risks to the heart. Hats in particular help trap heat in the body.
- If engaging in outdoor chores and activities, take frequent breaks.
- Learn the heart attack warning signs and listen to your body. Call 911 if you even suspect a heart attack.
When it’s cold out, it’s time to take special care of senior loved ones and consider enlisting homecare services. Kadan Homecare caregivers can pay regular companion care visits to seniors to make sure they’re staying safe at home and managing chronic health conditions that may worsen during the winter months. They’re also available to assist with errands so that the senior doesn’t have to risk getting out in frosty conditions.
For more information about Kadan’s award-winning care services for seniors, call 770-396-8997 or email info@kadan.org.
