Winter in Wisconsin can be beautiful, but it also bringschallenges for older adults. Cold temperatures, icy sidewalks and unpredictableweather can increase health risks, especially for seniors who may already bemanaging chronic conditions or mobility concerns. With a little preparation,you can stay safe and comfortable all season long. Here are key winter safetytips based on guidance for older adults.
Recognizing and Preventing Hypothermia
Hypothermia happens when your body temperature drops to adangerous level. It can occur when you’re outside too long in cold weather oreven indoors if your home isn’t warm enough. Older adults are more vulnerablebecause the body’s ability to regulate temperature changes with age.
Common warning signs include pale or ashy skin, confusion,sleepiness, weakness, trouble walking and slowed breathing or heart rate. Ifyou suspect hypothermia in yourself or someone else, call 911 right away.Shivering isn’t always a reliable sign because many older adults don’t shiveras much when their temperature drops.
To reduce your risk, stay indoors when temperatures drop orlimit your time outside. Keep your home at 65 degrees or warmer. Wear dryclothing since damp fabric chills your body faster. Dress in layers with ascarf over your mouth and nose to protect your lungs. Don’t forget hats, glovesor mittens, a winter coat and boots when heading outdoors.
Protecting Yourself From Frostbite
Frostbite is another cold‑weather danger. It occurs whenskin freezes and the damage can reach down to the bone in severe cases. Itoften affects areas far from your heart such as your ears, nose, cheeks,fingers and toes. People with circulation problems have an even higher risk.
Make sure every part of your body is covered when you gooutside. If your skin starts turning red or dark or begins to hurt, go indoorsright away. Warning signs include skin that looks white, ashy or grayishyellow, skin that feels hard or waxy or numbness. If frostbite is suspected,seek medical help immediately. Run the affected area under warm water, not hot.
Staying Safe While Shoveling Snow
Snow shoveling may look simple, but it can be demanding onthe heart. Cold weather makes your heart work harder, so adding strenuousactivity can be risky, especially if you have heart disease, balance problemsor osteoporosis. Before picking up a shovel, check with your healthcareprovider to make sure it’s safe for you.
If you do shovel, take breaks, go slowly and listen to yourbody. Don’t overdo it.
Preventing Falls in Winter
Falls are a major concern for older adults during winter.Ice and snow can make sidewalks and driveways treacherous even when they lookclear.
Before heading outside, check that steps and walkways arecleared. Wet pavement can hide ice, so move carefully. Wear boots with non‑skidsoles for better traction. If you use a cane, inspect the rubber tip andreplace it once it becomes worn. You can also attach an ice‑gripping device tothe bottom of your cane for added stability. [dhs.wisconsin.gov]
At home, consider hiring help to clear snow and spread saltor sand. Falling is far riskier than asking for assistance.
Preventing Fires and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Winter is a common time to use fireplaces, space heaters orfuel‑burning appliances. These can be helpful but also pose fire and carbonmonoxide risks if not used correctly. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that youcan’t see or smell, so it’s important to take precautions.
Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache,weakness, nausea, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision and loss ofconsciousness. If you suspect carbon monoxide exposure, get into fresh air andseek medical care right away. [dhs.wisconsin.gov]
Keep your home safe by having chimneys and flues inspectedyearly. If you’re using a kerosene heater, open a window just a little forventilation. Install smoke detectors and battery‑powered carbon monoxidedetectors in key areas of your home. Keep space heaters at least three feetaway from anything that might catch fire. Never try to heat your home with agas stove or grill. If a fire breaks out, leave immediately and call 911.
Driving Safely in Winter Weather
Adults 65 and older are involved in more car crashes permile driven than most other age groups, and winter driving brings addedhazards.
Before winter arrives, get your car serviced. Check yourtires, antifreeze and windshield wipers. Always carry your cell phone and letsomeone know where you’re going and when you expect to return. Avoid icy roadswhen possible and take particular care on bridges and overpasses. Larger roadsare often cleared better than neighborhood streets, so consider taking aslightly longer but safer route.
Stock your vehicle with essentials such as a first aid kit, blankets, extra warm clothing, booster cables, a scraper, a small shovel, sand or cat litter for traction, water, snacks, a flashlight and a map if you’redriving somewhere unfamiliar.
Winter doesn’t have to be dangerous
With the right preparation and a little extra caution, olderadults can stay healthy, warm and confident all season long. If you’re unsurewhether certain activities are safe for you, talk with your healthcare providerand always trust your instincts when the weather turns cold.
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