As the temperature drops and snow begins to fall, older adults may find themselves at risk for a number of potential problems and health issues that arise from the colder weather. The following are the most common health issues seen during this season and steps you can take to ensure you’re prepared when the snow starts to fly.
Hypothermia
Hypothermia is an abnormally low body temperature brought on by staying in cold temperatures for a long period of time. This lowered body temperature affects the brain, and a person's ability to think clearly or move well. Severe hypothermia can also cause an irregular heartbeat leading to heart failure and death.
Older adults are at an increased risk of hypothermia, especially those who:
- Have other illnesses, such as heart disease or circulation problems
- Take medicines that interfere with the body's ability to regulate its temperature
- Don’t have adequate food, clothing, or heat
- Sit alone for hours or days at a time in a cold apartment or home
The following are the most common symptoms of hypothermia:
- Confusion
- Sleepiness
- Shivering and exhaustion
- Slow, slurred speech, or shallow breathing
- Weak pulse and/or low blood pressure
- Stiffness in the arms and legs
- Poor control over body movements or slow reactions
To prevent the effects of hypothermia in the colder months, older adults should stay indoors as much as possible and ensure that indoor temperatures are set at 65 degrees or warmer. They should also dress in layers and ensure their clothes are dry as wet clothing chills your body faster.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a deadly gas you can't see or smell. It's produced when certain fuels are burned. In the winter we are more likely to use fireplaces or other heating sources, which if not properly vented or cleaned, can release carbon monoxide. So can a car left running in an enclosed space. Inhaling even small amounts of carbon monoxide can make you sick. Larger amounts can be fatal.
Watch for symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning such as:
- Headache and dizziness
- Weakness
- Confusion or loss of memory
- Nausea and vomiting
- Trouble breathing or chest pain
- Irregular, skipped, or fast heartbeats
To help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:
- Have furnaces, water heaters, gas ovens, and wood stoves checked each year.
- Don't use a charcoal grill inside the house.
- Don't leave your car running in an enclosed space.
- Install a carbon monoxide detector near areas where you use fireplaces or other heat sources.
- Never try to heat your home using a gas stove.
Falls
As you get older, falls are more likely to happen for many reasons. One reason is because your reaction time slows. Your muscles and joints may also get stiffer, making them less flexible and therefore more prone to injury. Illness, medicines, and vision changes can also affect your balance. In the winter, icy and snowy conditions can make things even more dangerous.
Take the following precautions to ensure your safety:
- Clear steps and walkways of snow and salt them.
- Be especially careful if you see wet pavements that could be iced over.
- Choose shoes with rubber or nonskid soles. Athletic shoes are a good choice.
- Don't rush when crossing the street especially those that may still be covered in snow or slush.
- Watch for changes in pavement height.
If you’re worried about a loved one falling this winter enlist the help of Lakeland CallSafe. With a push of a button, you are connected to friendly Care Center professionals who will respond immediately, assess the situation, and send the type of help requested – this could be a friend, family member, or emergency personnel. For more information, click here or call (269) 985-4411