Watch out for Ice

More than 1.6 million older Americans go to the emergency room each year for fall-related injuries, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Stretch before going outside. Stretching improves circulation and limbers muscles.

Wear sensible footwear. Shoes should have low heels, good support and non-skid soles.

Stick to cleared sidewalks and roads. Shovel snow and sprinkle sand or salt on icy areas - or ask someone to do it for you.

Use assistive devices when necessary. Hold handrails on stairs. Use a cane or walker if necessary to help maintain balance.

Avoid going outside when conditions are poor. Exercise indoors. Stock up on necessities in good weather, or ask someone to deliver them to you.

Take off shoes as soon as you return indoors because often snow and ice attach to the soles and, once melted, can lead to slippery conditions inside.

Stay Warm Cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia -- a condition where the body

temperature dips too low. More than half of hypothermia-related deaths were of people over the age of 65.

Wear warm socks, a heavy coat, a warm hat, gloves and a scarf. In very cold temperatures, cover all exposed skin. Use a scarf to cover your mouth and protect your lungs.

Your body temperature should never dip below 95 degrees, if it does, get medical assistance immediately.

Protect Your Skin Keep room air moist. Add a humidifier to your heating unit, if possible, or purchase a separate humidifier or

vaporizer. Another option is to place a pan filled with water near a heat source such as a radiator.

Keep your body moist! Drink plenty of water and other fluids. Eat foods with high water content like soups and vegetables.

Moisturize your skin with creams or lotions. Use nasal lubricants or petroleum jelly to protect the lining of the nose to help avoid nosebleeds.

As people spend more time indoors and may eat a smaller variety of foods, nutritional deficits -- especially Vitamin D deficiency -- can be a problem in the winter. Consuming foods that are fortified with Vitamin D, such as milk, grains and seafood options like tuna and salmon can help counter deficiencies.

DepressionPerhaps the most challenging threat to seniors in wintertime is depression. The isolation and loneliness that afflict many seniors becomes even worse when the weather is harsh. Shorter days mean less sunlight, which can also contribute to depression.

Socialize. Make an effort to visit with family and friends.

Contact a local Council on Aging for help locating transportation services, senior centers and social activities.

Be Prepared for an EmergencyWinter storms can lead to power outages. Make sure you have easy access to flashlights and a battery-powered radio in case the power goes out. Stockpile warm blankets. Longer power outages can spoil the food in your refrigerator and freezer, so keep a supply of non-perishable foods that can be eaten cold on hand.

If the power goes out, wear several layers of clothing, including a hat. Move around a lot to raise your body temperature. Using a fireplace, gas heater or lanterns can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Ensure your safety by checking the batteries on your carbon monoxide detector and buying an updated one if you need to.

ConclusionThe most important tip to keep in mind during the colder months is to ask for help. If you need to clear your property of snow and ice, don't hesitate to ask a family member or neighbor, or hire a professional. Arrange rides to the grocery store and doctor's appointments. Many communities have shuttle services specifically for seniors. Don't be afraid to reach out for help. Wintertime certainly poses challenges for seniors, but with a bit of planning and awareness, you can stay healthy and experience the joys of springtime soon enough.

Website : http://www.concordialm.org/

Contact : 724-352-1571