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 March 2007 Back to Table of Contents Back to Archives Main Page Section: Being Well Surviving Winter’s Parting Shots By Lisa M. Petsche
The following are ways to minimize problems for a relative in your care. Health Tips • If you haven’t already done so, check to see if flu shots are still available. Those over 65, especially with chronic illness, are at high risk for complications from influenza — a leading cause of death among adults in that age group. • Ensure your relative takes in plenty of fluids as dryness caused by heating systems can lead to dehydration. (Check with her doctor, to see if fluid restrictions are in place.) • Serve foods rich in vitamin C to help ward off viruses and infections. Serve warm foods and beverages to raise body temperature. • Limit intake of alcohol, as it’s a diuretic (dehydrating) and also speeds up body heat loss. • Stock up on non-perishable foods and refill prescriptions at least a week before they run out. • Ensure the indoor temperature remains above 65° F, ideally no lower than 68° F. Hypothermia is a risk to seniors even indoors, due to the decreased circulation that tends to accompany aging, as well as inactivity, illness and some medications. • Ask your relative’s doctor or pharmacist to review her medications to advise if any affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature. • Dress your relative warmly, in loose-fitting layers. Don’t forget warm footwear, too. Slippers should offer support and skid-resistant soles. • Ensure your relative has several layers of warm bedding. Keep throws available for added warmth. • If your relative lives alone, check on her daily during the cold weather. If conditions make it unsafe for you to go out, telephone in the morning and evening. If you live out of town, arrange for a local friend or neighbor to make a daily visit or phone check. Supply your relative with a list of businesses that offer delivery service so she doesn’t need to venture out in chilly weather. • Prepare for a power outage by creating a kit containing candles, proper candle holders, matches, flashlights or a battery-powered lamp, a battery-operated radio, fresh batteries, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable food. Store it in an accessible place. Keep emergency numbers by the phone. Indoor Safety • Buy rechargeable flashlights that plug in and automatically turn on when the power goes out. • Ensure heat registers and vents are unobstructed. • Exercise caution with space heaters which can pose a significant fire hazard: Keep them several feet away from walls and combustible objects, as well as out of traffic areas. Watch that the electrical cord does not pose a tripping hazard. When buying a heater, look for one with an automatic shut-off safety feature. • Check smoke detector batteries monthly and replace them regularly, bearing in mind that fires are more prevalent in winter. • Place candles where they won’t be knocked over, well out of reach of your relative and pets, and away from lampshades, curtains and other flammable materials. • Ensure any fires – whether from a fireplace or burning candles – are extinguished before you go out or retire to bed. Outdoor Safety • When you venture out, ensure your relative has a warm coat, scarf, gloves or mittens and a hat. If she is weight-bearing, a pair of boots with good treads is a must ini case ise prevails in March. You, too, should have non-skid boots, in case you need to provide hands-on assistance. • If your relative uses a cane, buy an ice pick that fits onto the tip and folds when not in use. Purchase at a home health care store. • Keep walkways clear of snow and ice. • Keep your car well-maintained and the fuel tank at least half full. Ensure the following emergency supplies are on board: a working flashlight with extra batteries, emergency flares, blankets, hats, mittens, and non-perishable snacks such as granola bars. A cell phone also comes in handy, to summon help quickly if needed. An auto club membership is another good idea. back to top back to table of contents Current Issue | About Forever Young | Where to Find | Advertise | Our Advertisers | Community Calendar | Contest | Clubs | Contact Us | Archives | Home |
