INDUSTRY INSIGHT
WINTER HEALTH
SPONSORED CONTENT
Planning Ahead for a Safe and Healthy Winter
P
ittsburgh winters are filled with freezing temps and falling snow.
And while it certainly makes for postcard-like scenes, at Asbury
Heights we encourage caution for older adults during this time
of year.
Many illnesses and injuries can be avoided by planning ahead. The
following tips and information will help to ensure a safe winter for
you and those you love.
FLU SHOTS
Adults age 65 and older are very susceptible to developing the flu
due to compromised immune systems. To minimize your risk, get a
flu shot, practice frequent and thorough hand washing, and avoid
contact with anyone who is showing signs and symptoms of the flu.
STAYING WARM
Cold weather can be taxing on the body and can be especially
hazardous for older adults.
Plan ahead by servicing your furnace before winter sets in, and
keep a fire extinguisher, smoke detector, and battery-operated
carbon monoxide detector in the house especially if you have a
wood-burning fi replace or stove. Space heaters and generators
COOKING
Home
Maintenance
appointments
Health
CARE
WALK
cleaning
should be avoided if at all possible. Check for drafts around windows
and doors, and insulate as needed.
Venturing outdoors is risky during the winter with the threat of
hypothermia, slippery conditions and falling on ice. If conditions are
poor, avoid going outside if you can. However, if you must go out,
wear layers, including a hat that covers your ears, a scarf that covers
your neck, mouth, and nose to keep cold air out of your lungs, and
wear gloves or mittens to protect your hands.
SAFE AND WARM SHOES
Outdoor shoes should be made of waterproof and breathable
material like Gore-Tex® or similar fabics to keep your feet warm and
dry while allowing perspiration to escape. Fleece or wool socks
provide more warmth than cotton socks. Make sure your footwear has
non-skid soles to reduce the likelihood of slipping and falling.
AVOIDING STRENUOUS ACTIVITY
If snow is piling up on the driveway and sidewalk, ask a younger
family member, neighbor or friend to clear a path. Older adults who
shovel snow, no matter how physically strong and fit they feel, are
at an increased risk for falls and heart attacks, both of which are life
threatening. Shoveling should especially be avoided if you have
osteoporosis or heart disease.
SAFE DRIVING
Only drive when there is no danger of ice. If driving is necessary,
make sure the car has been serviced and is working properly. Keep
a safety kit with extra clothing, blankets, water, a first aid kit, and
a safety light in the car. Pull over and stop the vehicle if inclement
weather hits.
When warming up your car, make certain it is outside and
that snow is not obstructing the exhaust pipe to prevent carbon
monoxide exposure.
HAVE A WINTER BUDDY
Set up a winter buddy system. Connect with a neighbor, family
member, or a church friend. Check up on each other daily. It’s a
great social connection for a little conversation when the weather is
keeping you inside, and it’s a chance for someone to know if you need
some help in case you don’t answer the call.
HOLIDAY DECORATIONS
Some people leave their outdoor holiday decorations up long after
the holidays are over, and for good reason. Decorations should only
be removed in milder weather to reduce outdoor exposure and the
risk of injuries or falls.
Your health and safety is always a priority at Asbury Heights where
maintenance-free living lets you live life at your best. Learn more
about living at Asbury Heights by calling Liz Warner, 412.571.5138 or
visit our web site, www.asburyheights.org.
Stop questioning. The answer is
z Independent Living
z Personal Care
z Memory Support
z Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation
700 Bower Hill Road, Mt. Lebanon z 412-571-5138 z asburyheights.org
Asbury Heights complies with applicable federal civil rights laws and does not
discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.
This Industry Insight was written by Marjorie A. Doughton, MSW.
Marjorie is the director of Independent Resident Services at Asbury Heights and has
extensive experience working with older adults.
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