Living in the south region of Chicago, we are more than close enough to Lake Michigan to know how winter weather can pose a number of challenges, not the least of which are snow, ice and sub-freezing temperatures. Many people embrace the arctic elements, however, seniors and the elderly are much more vulnerable in these conditions, and we should all look out for aging adults in our families, neighborhoods, communities and everyday lives.
I am fortunate to own a company that specializes in in-home care services and the elderly. I get feedback daily from my caregivers as to the health, well-being and safety of our clients after each of their shifts. I worry about those who have no one to look after them, especially during the winter months.
For this reason, I want to bring awareness to the most prevalent danger to seniors in the winter months, hypothermia. We must all stay aware that hypothermia is a health hazard to seniors in our lives and stay proactive in keeping them warm and physically and mentally well this season!
What is Hypothermia?
Hypothermia is a condition defined as a low body temperature that registers under 95 degrees. It is a serious, life-threatening health hazard for seniors and the elderly…or anyone, for that matter.
It’s important we watch for signs of hypothermia in seniors:
- Changes in speech (slowing/slurring)
- Loss of memory
- Disorientation
- Severe shivering
- Drowsiness
- Stumbling
- Fatigue
As we adults age, our metabolism and circulation slow down. Older adults tend to have bones that are osteoporotic, brittle and more susceptible to fractures. Our skin thins, so we don’t have as much insulation or epidermal protection. There are many factors for this, but most are due to health conditions, poor dietary habits, medications, etc. It’s true. Some medications can prevent our bodies from warming properly.
Plus, we can’t dismiss residential mechanics! Faulty HVAC equipment, coupled with increasing energy costs often results in financial constraints for seniors on fixed incomes, which can ultimately put them in danger every frigid day during our extended winter months.
Here are a few ways to help keep seniors warm:
Make sure your senior loved ones are:
- Dressing in warm clothing, particularly layers of lightweight clothing
- Snuggling under blankets, quilts or comforters
- Properly maintaining their furnace, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and/or space heaters which can all pose significant fire threats
- Checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are operable
If you discover a senior loved one is experiencing any symptoms of hypothermia or you have concerns about their safety and well-being, please call 911, or transport them to a local emergency room as soon as possible.
Home Helpers is here with compassionate caregivers to make wellness calls or perform a variety of in-home care services such as meal planning and preparation, medication reminders and homemaking services, while monitoring the well-being of your loved one. Maybe, your loved one has dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s or is recovering from a stroke. We can help with our specialized care services for seniors by our highly-trained caregivers!
I am available for a FREE Consultation to assess specific needs and create an individual care plan to make life easier, warmer and much more comfortable for your senior loved one!
Home Helpers® Bourbonnais/Kankakee/Frankfort proudly serves male and female seniors in Beecher, Bourbonnais, Bradley, Dwight, Frankfort, Kankakee, Manteno, Mokena, New Lenox, Orland Park, Palos Heights, Palos Hills, Tinley Park, Watseka, Wilmington and surrounding areas. Contact me today to learn more about the many services offered through Home Helpers® - We are Making Life Easier℠ for you and yours! 815.427.4238
Source:
City of Chicago
