Winter Tips for Seniors

For seniors, the bitter cold and snowy conditions of winter can be very dangerous. Seniors have a higher chance of tripping, but also have a poorer immune system, making them more prone to the flu and pneumonia.

We don't have to spend all of the winter indoors, despite the weather. Planning ahead and being aware of your surroundings are necessary for staying cheerful while ageing. Here are some winter safety tips for seniors to help you get ready for a safer and healthier winter season, whether you're a senior yourself or the caregiver of a senior loved one.

Be prepared for the weather

If you must visit outside on a chilly day, wear layers that are loose. You'll stay warm because of the air between your layers. Don't forget your scarf and cap. If your head and neck are left exposed, you will lose a lot of heat. In the rain, put on shoes and a waterproof jacket. If your clothing gets wet, change it right away.

Moisture frequently 

The loss of moisture in older skin is much more severe, and many different skin disorders include dryness (xerosis) as a primary or secondary cause. Skin care for seniors is very essential, while lotion may be sufficient for some, seniors may want to look for thicker creams or ointments. "It's important that people, especially senior citizens, moisturize their skin throughout the cold months", Please double-check the ingredients.

Put on sunscreen

Even on gloomy winter days, sunscreen is important. In areas where snow is a possibility, sun protection is particularly essential. Snow easily reflects UV radiation, which can still result in harmful sunburns even in gloomy or foggy weather.

Stay hydrated

Most people think that dehydration is just a problem in the hot summer, but just because it's cold outdoors doesn't mean that you should reduce the amount of water intake. Stay hydrated to reduce dry skin. Urine testing is one technique to determine if you're receiving enough water. While some medications may have an impact on urine colour, most people can strive for colours that fall between light to somewhat yellow.

Dental hygiene for seniors

Seniors who have oral health conditions may feel pain, discomfort, and have troubles with their jaw and mouth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth at least twice per day. For a thorough dental examination, cleaning, and checkup, visit the dentist regularly to maintain a proper dental hygiene for seniors.

Avoid Smoking

Smoking can have a harmful effect on your oral health since it raises the risk of gum disease, tooth decay at the roots, oral cancer, oral surgery complications, and gum disease.

Vitamin D deficiency

Individuals of all ages are becoming more and more sensitive to vitamin D deficiency, but seniors are at higher risk. Particularly among older people, the symptoms of insufficient vitamin D are sometimes mild and might be confused for other medical issues. Getting adequate vitamin D from your diet or from sun exposure is the best method for preventing vitamin D deficiency. However, avoid spending too much time outdoors without sunscreen.

Preventing slipping by using anti-slip tiles and matting

The majority of falls happen while entering and exiting the shower or bathtub. To ensure bathroom safety for seniors use an anti-slip mat here because this is a slick area that is frequently exposed to soap and water. These could be placed next to the sink, in front of the toilet, or at the entrance to the bathroom.

Non-slip adhesive tapes can also be quite helpful, especially when used on the edges of basins; they stop hands from slipping if someone has to hold onto them for balance. These tape strips could also be used to mark off slippery areas visually.

Wear several layers of thin clothes

Wear multiple layers of lightweight clothes indoors to  protect your body by warming in the spaces between the layers. Overheating is also avoided by using several easily removable thin layers. Just as important as dressing for the weather is wearing appropriate clothing to bed in order to regulate your body temperature while you sleep.

Athulya Assisted Living Facilities are everything that seniors might need for a happy stay in this winter. It is close to the comfort of a home and far from the struggles of availing quality care.  We at Athulya Assisted Living provide top tier facilities such as comfortable beds, slip-resistant floors, soothing-rooms, well-lit corridors , spacious dining halls, and outgoing walkways. 

To have a virtual tour of Athulya Assisted Living facilities, Watch the Full Video Here.