While the winter months provide an opportunity to try new indoor hobbies and connect with family or friends, it also presents unique health and safety concerns for older adults. Seniors are more sensitive to the cold than younger adults and can experience a range of health problems as a result. Even more, the harsh winter weather conditions significantly increase the risk of falling for adults aged 65 and older.

Fortunately, with proper planning and care, seniors can reduce their risk of injuries and illness in the wintertime. From staying warm and healthy to ensuring safety on icy paths, here are some tips to help you or your elderly loved one safely navigate winter.

Prevent falls and injuries.

Snowy roads and icy sidewalks make it easy to slip and fall. And since falls are a major concern for adults over the age of 65, it is important that you take extra care during the winter months. Seniors can help prevent falls in the wintertime by:

• Staying indoors until sidewalks and roads are clear and safe.
• Wearing shoes with non-skid soles and good traction.
• Replacing worn canes or walker tips.
• Removing slippery, wet shoes immediately after coming indoors.
• Asking neighbors, friends and family for help with driving or snow shoveling when road conditions are poor.

Prepare for power outages.

A home generator is great to have on hand if the power goes out during the winter. If that’s not an option, be sure to have flashlights, warm clothing and extra blankets close by. The best solution is to go to the house of a family member or friend until your power and heat is restored.

Combat winter blues.

Shorter days, longer nights and harsh weather conditions that make it difficult to get outdoors can lead to isolation and depression in older adults. Seniors suffering from the winter blues can be helped by letting in more sunlight, joining a club with other older adults or video chatting with loved ones. When seasonal depression persists, always talk to your doctor about the best ways to manage your seasonal sadness.

Dress for cold temperatures.

When temperatures drop, it can lead to f hypothermia—a condition where the body temperature dips dangerously low. More than half of hypothermia-related deaths are of people over the age of 65, according to the CDC. To prevent health problems related to cold weather, seniors should keep indoor temperatures warm and dress in layers. If you must venture outside, cover all exposed skin by wearing thick socks, a heavy coat, a scarf, gloves and a warm hat.

Stay up-to-date on immunizations.

Older adults, especially those with a weakened immune system, are more vulnerable to catching wintertime viruses, like the cold or flu. Talk to your doctor about which vaccines would be most helpful for protecting yourself against illnesses.

Consider a move to a senior living community.

The cold, winter months can present many health concerns for older adults, particularly those who live alone. When the challenges of winter become too much for your senior parent or loved one to handle on their own, it may be time to consider transitioning into a senior living community.The communities at Senior Solutions are located all throughout the Southern USA and have excellent care and amenities.