Seven Tips for Winter Survival

Winter can be tough. The wind is howling. The snow is blowing. It’s too cold to go outside. You miss those warm summer breezes. How do you plan to survive until spring? At Visiting Angels, we know that getting through the winter chill can be hard. They don’t call it SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) for nothing. We thought we’d put together some winter survival tips to help you power through and live large until the daffodils and tulips start to come up.

Feel warm, be warm. Start by dressing for the weather. Seniors are at risk for hypothermia, so be sure to stay warm. Dress in layers and when you head outside cover all exposed skin. If you are warm and cozy, maybe that blowing snow will make you feel like you are looking at a snow globe.

Check the car. Before winter gets to severe, be sure to check the car. Have a trusted mechanic check the oil, battery, tires, and windshield wipers. A quick winter check can help you feel more secure on the road. If you are worried about driving in the winter, ask a friend or family member to help. If you need regular assistance, Visiting Angels’ senior home care services can provide the additional support you need to get to appointments or run errands safely.

Be prepared. Snow storms bring power outages. Make sure you are prepared with flashlights, new batteries, warm blankets, and canned goods.

Fight the winter blues. Winter can be an isolating time for seniors. If you don’t have regularly scheduled activities to keep you busy, consider companion care services from Visiting Angels. Our elder care providers can stop in regularly to help you run errands, prepare meals, help with the housekeeping, play games, or just have a friendly conversation. Friendly companionship makes the day fly by.

Eat healthy. It can be hard to eat healthy during the winter when fresh fruits and vegetables are harder to come by. Try to eat a variety of foods to ensure you are getting all the nutritional benefits you require.

Home heating safety. Heating your home is essential; be sure you do it safely to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. If you use a fireplace, have your chimney and flues checked. Have your furnace checked yearly. Check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If you use a kerosene stove, open a window slightly to dissipate fumes. Use space heaters with caution and always at least 3 feet away from curtains, bedding or furniture that might burn.

Stay active. One of the best ways to avoid the winter blues is to stay active. You can exercise by walking around your apartment building, at the local mall, health club, or, if the weather permits, outside.

If you are worried about not being able to get out and about this winter, call Visiting Angels today for home care services. Our home care services can help you live safely and independently throughout the winter.