More Winter Tips for Elders

Source: Linda Slota, Director
Webster Senior Center News

Stay Warm This Winter - How Cold Is It?

The first line of protection is to be aware of weather forecasts and prepare for days when you are unable to go shopping, keep medical appointments or get to personal and social appointments. Besides the temperature, pay attention to the Wind Chill Index which is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin by combined effects of wind and cold.

What Do I Wear to Stay Warm?

When it is very cold, dress in multiple, dry layers of loose-fitting clothing, pairs of thick socks, as well as a scarf, hat and mittens.

How Do I Keep My House Warm?

Heating your home is expensive, but important to staying healthy in the winter. Attic insulation is very helpful along with sealing air leaks. Be very careful of space heaters, which can pose a burn and fire risk. If you are having trouble paying your home heating bill, contact LIHEAP Fuel Assistance Program. Call 1-800-632-8175. Salvation Army Good Neighbor Fund 1-800-262-1320 or 617-542-5420 or visit www.magoodneighbor.org. Shop Around - The Mass. Oil Heat Association offers a statewide list of member home heating oil dealers at www.massoilheat.org.

Stay Safe in the Snow and Ice

Avoid over exertion. Shoveling is very strenuous exercise and can quickly take a toll on your body. Ask someone to shovel for you if you are at high risk of a heart attack or other injury. If you must shovel, go slowly, lift carefully, take frequent breaks, drink a lot of water, dress warmly and stop at the first sign of pain or exhaustion. Keep a covered bucket of sand on your porch to use for "black ice." Stay indoors when the weather is very bad; if you need to leave your home, try to use public transportation. If you must drive, make sure you are well stocked with a fill tank of gas, sand or kitty litter for traction, a windshield scraper and de-icer, cell phone and blanket, gloves, socks, hat and boots.

Stock Up for Snowy Days

In the event of major storm, elders should be prepared to remain inside their homes for a few days. These precautions will help you weather emergencies:

• Emergency phone numbers
• Extra medications
• First-aid supplies
• A 3-day supply of non-perishable foods and drinks, ready to eat canned meat, fruit, vegetables, snack bars, cereal, juice, powdered milk
• Battery operated flashlights
• Candles

Stay Health During Flu Season

It is not too late to get vaccinated. February is when the flu seson is at it height. Contact your health care provider about getting a flu shot.

Ask Yourself: Who is Looking Out for Me? 

In bad weather tell a friend, family member or neighbor where they will be able to find you. Tell them where an extra key is located so that they can get into your home in the event of an emergency. If you have special needs such as oxygen, contact your police station and let them know you may need assistance if the power fails.