Winter in the NYC, Westchester, Long Island and New Jersey areas can be a beautiful season, but it also brings challenges, especially for seniors. Staying safe and comfortable during cold weather is crucial. Here are five practical tips to help seniors navigate the winter months in the NYC area with ease.
- Dress in Layers
Cold temperatures can increase the risk of hypothermia. To stay warm:
- Wear several layers of loose-fitting clothing.
- Opt for thermal undergarments, warm socks, gloves, and a hat.
- Ensure outer layers are waterproof if you’ll be outside in wet or snowy conditions.
- Prevent Falls
Snow and ice can make walking treacherous. Reduce your risk by:
- Wearing shoes or boots with good traction
- Using a cane or walker with an ice grip attachment if needed
- Keeping walkways clear of ice and snow and sprinkling sand or salt for extra grip
- Stay Warm Indoors
Heating costs can rise in the winter, but maintaining a safe indoor temperature is vital:
- Keep the thermostat set to at least 68°F (20°C).
- Use draft stoppers for doors and windows to conserve heat.
- Have a backup heat source like a portable heater, but ensure it’s used safely and is never left unattended.
- Be Prepared for Power Outages
Winter storms can cause power outages, leaving you in the cold. Prepare by:
- Stocking up on non-perishable food, water, and flashlights
- Having extra blankets and warm clothing ready
- Keeping a fully charged phone and a backup power source handy
- Watch for Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite
Cold exposure can be dangerous. Stay alert for:
- Hypothermia: Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, or fatigue
- Frostbite: Numbness, skin discoloration, or tingling in extremities; seek medical attention immediately if you notice these signs.
By following these tips, seniors can enjoy a safer and more comfortable winter season. Stay warm this winter!
About Alvita Care
Alvita Care is a licensed home care services agency serving New York City, Long Island, Westchester and New Jersey. We have earned The Gold Seal of Approval from the Joint Commission and serve as a trusted provider of home care and private duty nursing services, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for seniors and individuals who require additional assistance. Alvita Care is the preferred provider of bedside care at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC. At Alvita Care, we understand that each person has unique needs and our compassionate team tailors personalized care plans for each individual client.
Alvita Care offers a wide array of services, including Home Care, Private Duty Nursing, Bedside Care and Care Management. We also offer specialty care in the areas of Cancer, Alzheimer’s and Dementia, Parkinson’s and post-hospital care, to name a few. Our team of professional caregivers and nurses work hard to ensure that clients receive reliable and compassionate care, whether bedside in a facility or in the comfort of their own homes. We strive to promote a strong sense of well-being for seniors with the goal of helping them to retain their independence and dignity. Contact Alvita Care today if you’re interested in learning more about how we may be able to help you or a loved one in need of some additional support: alvitacare.com, 1-800-414-7611.
