Brave Winter Elements Safely…

Posted on December 14, 2010 in Health and Wellness for All Communities

The winter elements can take a physical toll on everyone, but pose an even greater risk of health problems to older adults.

It is critically important limit your exposure to the elements to short periods, stay dry and always wear a hat, gloves or mittens, a coat, boots and a scarf that covers your mouth and nose.

Hypothermia is a deadly drop in body temperature. The warning signs of hypothermia include severe shivering; cold skin that is pale or ashy; feeling very tired, confused and sleepy; feeling weak; problems walking; and slowed breathing or heart rate.

Frostbite is deep damage to the skin, usually affecting the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes. People with heart disease and circulation problems are more likely to get frostbite. The telltale signs include numbness, ashy or grayish-yellow skin and skin that feels hard or waxy.

Falls are a leading cause of disability and death in seniors and the risk of falls increases significantly in the winter. To lower the odds of a fall, do not walk on icy or snowy sidewalks; wear boots with non-skid soles and replace the rubber tips on canes or walkers that have been worn smooth from use (replacements are available at most pharmacies).

If someone you know shows the signs of hypothermia or frostbite or takes a fall, dial 9-1-1 to get help immediately!

Also, play it safe with hazardous driving conditions. The following tips from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety and the Ohio Department of Public Safety will help you reach your destination safely:

Keep your vehicle in good working order and slow down on icy roads or avoid them, if possible.
Carry a cell phone to call for help.
Maintain at least half a tank of fuel at all times, in case you get stranded.
Have your eyes examined and always wear prescription lenses. Do not wear glasses with sidepieces that could obstruct your view.
Wear a safety belt and be sure it is adjusted properly.
Be aware of the surrounding cars on the roadways, and maintain a safe distance between your car and the car in front of you.
Always use turn signals and go as slowly as necessary to stay in your lane when turning. Ensure your vehicle’s mirrors are properly adjusted.
Drive the speed limit, and stay in the right lane whenever possible. Do not drive too slowly because this can be just as unsafe as speeding.
Scan the road for signs and signals. Know road signs by shape, and know what they mean.
Drive during non-rush hours whenever possible, and try to stay on familiar roads.
Do not feel pressured into making a turn or passing until you are sure you can do so safely.
If you are taking medicine, even non-prescription, ask your doctor or pharmacist if it could affect your driving.

A word on shoveling snow

If you must shovel snow, take frequent breaks and please don’t overdo it. Take your time. Dress in layers so as not to overheat. Stay hydrated (water is a great choice – coffee will constrict your blood vessels.) Push snow instead of lifting it (a typical shovelful of snow is about 16 lbs.) Better yet, hire out your shoveling or ask a friend or relative to help you -- shoveling snow is a very risky practice particularly for people over 55 with sedentary lifestyles.

OPRS Communities, a wholly owned subsidiary of Ohio Presbyterian Retirement Services (OPRS), serves more than 4,500 residents in its 11 retirement communities.

At OPRS Communities you can put your shoveling days behind you!