Every year nearly half of Americans who die from hypothermia
are senior citizens aged 65 and over. Though most seniors rightly stay
sheltered indoors during the winter months in order to remain safely away from
the harsh cold weather, most seniors whom are affected by hypothermia over the
winter are afflicted inside their own homes. It’s in many cases, a senior may
forget to properly adjust their thermostat in order to maintain a healthily
warm temperature over the night as they sleep. It’s important for the elderly
to routinely check their thermostat or heating appliances to make sure that
their home is properly heated every morning before the begin their daily
routine, and before they go to sleep every night.
It’s also important for the elderly to stay hydrated in
order for the body to maintain a safe temperature. Older people drink and eat
less than younger people and thus have a greater difficulty allowing their body
to do the necessary work to keep them warm.
Another great hazard which the elderly should be aware of
during the winter is unpredictable and dangerous conditions of ice and
snowfall. The elderly should stay inside and avoid the outdoors as much as
possible during periods of harsh-cold weather. But when it’s necessary to
house, one needs to make sure that their porch, sidewalk and driveway has been
adequately shoveled and de-iced ahead of any planned departure. It’s also
important for the elderly to dress warmly during periods of cold weather. Coats,
scarves, mittens, thick socks and headwear are each necessary depending on
conditions. It’s also important to remember to properly hang dry clothing after
returning home. Wet clothing can increase chances of hypothermia.
For more information, read: https://thearborsassistedliving.com/family-resources/10-ways-keep-seniors-safe-winter-weather.
No comments:
Post a Comment