Whether you're new to Nebraska or you've lived in the state all your life, a refresher on winter safety as an older adult can be a good idea.
Many people choose to stay indoors as much as possible when there's ice or snow on the ground. However, it's not always an option to avoid winter conditions completely, and some older adults may enjoy spending time outside even if it's a bit chilly. A first step in safely navigating outdoor areas after a snowfall is to gear up appropriately.
Ensure you have warm clothing that you can also move well in. Wool is excellent for layers in the winter, as it's not heavy but provides lots of warmth. Ensure you have warm socks, gloves and a hat to help lock in your body's heat. Finally, invest in footwear that grips the ground to help reduce slips while keeping moisture from snow or ice from seeping through to your socks and feet.
Avoid attempting to get anywhere in a hurry during winter. Instead, take your time and test the ground as you walk to ensure it's not slippery. Taking many small steps can help you move across slick surfaces, and older adults should use support aids like canes and walkers to help retain balance if needed. You may find you like the support for walking in wintry conditions even if you don't normally use these devices.
Make it easier to walk on your driveway, deck, porch or sidewalk by treating it with sand or salt. These help keep ice from forming and can provide some grit to reduce the slickness of surfaces.
Shoveling driveways and walkways can be a serious winter workout. While older adults can certainly tackle this job if they feel up to it, it's best to approach with caution. If you aren't usually active or don't normally do manual labor of any type, shoveling snow can put a real strain on your body and heart. If you do want to try shoveling snow, consider doing a little bit at a time and taking plenty of rest breaks. Make sure you drink water to remain hydrated and come back in the house to avoid getting too cold.
Depending on your physical fitness level, the amount of snow you're dealing with and the size of your driveway, you may want to pay someone else to clear it. Many landscaping companies offer snow removal services in the winter, and you could also pay someone in your neighborhood, such as a college-age individual, to remove snow.
If you need to drive during the winter months, consider stocking your vehicle with an emergency kit. Keep some items that can help you if you find yourself stranded on the road during a snowfall or icy conditions. Some items you might want to include in such a kit are:
The ability to call for help if you need it can be life-saving. If you plan to go out during the winter, ensure your cell phone is charged and that you're carrying it in such a way that you can reach it easily. You might consider carrying it in a pocket or investing in a case that has a lanyard so you can wear your phone around your neck. This way, if you slip and fall on ice or snow, your phone has a better chance of being on you or near you than if you were carrying it in a bag or left it in the house or car.
Older adults who drive during the winter should spend some time in the late fall winterizing their car. That might include checking fluid levels, changing to winter tires and testing the battery and other critical systems. You can also have professionals handle some of these tasks.
Individuals who love every season in Nebraska but don't want the burden of snow removal or other issues during the winter might consider whether a move to assisted living is right for them. Residents of Hickory Villa in Omaha can enjoy everything the seasons have to offer, all while living a vibrant life that's free of many of the tasks involved in caring for a home.
