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Community Corner

WINTER CREATES MAJOR SAFETY AND HEALTH ISSUES FOR SENIORS

          Falls, Isolation, Proper Nutrition, Heart Issues Can Be Serious Challenges-Especially 
                                                       During the Winter Months
       
            Winter can be a wonderful time as families come together and share food, laughter and
gifts. Although you may be dreaming of a white Christmas or wonderful early Chanukah this
year, the winter months present serious hazards for seniors.
    “Winter weather makes life unpredictable for all of us. However, when you combine the
physical and cognitive challenges so many seniors face, you truly have serious possible health
and safety issues,” says Bob Tucker, a qualified dementia care provider (QDCP) and co-owner of
the Northbrook-based Senior Helpers office serving north and northwest Chicagoland.
            Walking outdoors in winter weather can be treacherous for anyone, especially seniors. In
fact, falls are the leading cause of injuries for people aged 65 and older. Many seniors have
impaired vision so they can’t see the snow and ice that is in their path. Medications such as cold
and cough products, sleeping aids and anti-anxiety pills can  affect balance. Arthritis,
osteoporosis , hip and knee problems, injuries and weakened muscles can all put a senior at risk
for a fall-especially during the winter.

              Six important outdoor safety tips for the winter:
             ☐ Wear well fitting footwear with non-slip soles.
             ☐ When possible use a railing for support.
     ☐ Check a walker or cane to see if it has newer rubber feet.
             ☐ Sidewalks need to be regularly cleared of snow and ice.
             ☐ Whenever possible, seniors should walk with a friend or caregiver-not alone.
             ☐ If you have a loved one with dementia who wanders, make sure you have safety
proofed their home so they are unable to get outside and be in real danger.

            Seniors also need to be safe inside their homes. Here is what you should look for when
visiting a friend or loved one:
    ☐   It is important to keep walking areas clear of furniture, electrical wires and clutter,
which can create fall hazzards.
    ☐   If your loved one uses a space heater, it should be kept out of walking paths and at a
safe distance from furniture or clothing that can catch on fire.
            ☐ Provide help when seniors are setting up their Christmas tree and other decorations and
help ensure safe lighting of a Chanukah Menorah-or consider an electric one.

          Other possible winter health issues:
             There are also other serious health issues for seniors in the winter.  “Heart attacks spike
as much as 53% during the winter months. Arteries constrict in the cold weather. This makes the
heart work harder to pump blood through the body. This also can result in high blood pressure
problems,” says Abbie Tucker, senior advocate and client services director, certified senior
advisor (CSA),  a qualified dementia care provider (QDCP) and co-owner of the Northbrook-
based Senior Helpers office. “In addition, flu and dehydration are other major risks associated
with winter. It’s not too late to get a flu shot as the flu season runs through March. And make
sure your loved one is eating properly and drinking enough fluids. You would probably be
surprised to hear how many seniors are hospitalized for dehydration and malnutrition each year.”
    Seniors that used to be active and suddenly find themselves unable to go out whenever
they wish can get depressed. This depression can result in a poor appetite and even skipping
meals. Adult children should reassure their elderly parents, they can still see friends, run errands
and be involved in the activities they enjoy-but they may need someone to assist them in getting
out.
            “Senior Helpers provides caregivers and personal assistants who can provide many
services including driving their clients wherever they want to go and assisting them in and out of
their homes. Being isolated in your home for weeks or months at a time can be very debilitating
and even dangerous for a senior,” adds Bob Tucker.    
          “Every winter you hear stories about seniors who have serious falls and accidents that have
an impact on their life. They could result in your loved one not being able to walk without
assistance,” says Abbie Tucker. “Or, they get into an auto accident that you knew was coming.
Please don’t let your family be one of those impacted by avoidable catastrophes.”
        For more information about senior safety, to arrange a personal review of your family’s
situation, or to request the help your loved one needs with an in-home caregiver or personal
assistant, please contact Bob Tucker at Senior Helpers, 847-564-7500, or go to
www.seniorhelpers.com or email rtucker@seniorhelpers.com


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