Whether you are a caregiver for seniors, reside with an elderly relative, or are perhaps yourself a senior, it is time to prepare for the winter season. The elderly and winter can be considered as an extremely hazardous combination. This is because as seniors they may get exposed to uniquely challenging situations while moving around and staying warm during the winter months.

However, it's not required for you to go into hibernation, altogether during the season. You can suitably ready yourself for winter crisis before the cold weather strikes, through certain important ways. Here are some winter safety precautions for the seniors to brave this winter weather:

• Inspect Heating System It's very important for the elderly to get their heating system checked annually for probable issues. This will ensure your safety during a cold spell in case your furnace starts to malfunction and temperatures drop within a matter of hours in your home.
• Install Smoke Alarms Ensure to install fully functional smoke alarms as well as carbon monoxide detectors in the vicinity of the bedrooms and on every floor of your home or apartment. They could prove to be a life-saver in case of a gas leak, defective heater or abrupt winter fire.
• Stack Handy Resources Make sure you stock up on enough warm blankets and have running flashlights handy for a winter power cut. These items could make you stay hapless without heat or electricity and being exposed to the biting cold weather conditions.
• Store Emergency Food Supply You should make sure to store plenty of nutritious canned food supply and other essential non-perishables in your home. This will enable you to always be fully ready for your balanced diet during an event when there isn't a likelihood of leaving your home.
• Have a Battery-Operated Radio You should have a battery-operated portable radio handy with you, which will enable you to acquire weather reports and other relevant news in case of a power outage. It is also recommended to keep a cell phone for emergency use during disabled power lines.
• Stock-Up on Medications You may require your daily medication on a timely basis for which it is essential to stock them up sufficiently, especially during the harsh and unpredictable weather condition. It also may be necessary to plan in advance with your home health care service to establish emergency procedures. Also, ensure to refill the at-home first-aid kit.
• Avoid Slipping on Ice Ensure to put on shoes with proper grip and non-skid soles, and remain indoors until the roads get cleared. Replace your battered cane to allow yourself better support for walking. Remove your shoes upon you return indoors to avoid slippery conditions inside due to the melting of attached snow and ice to the soles.
• Dress for Warmth Wearing warm layers is a necessary aspect of winter weather dressing. During intensely low temperatures, ensure to have yourself fully covered using a heavy coat, wool socks, a scarf to help defend the lungs from coarse winter air.
• Boost Mental Health Winter weather can cause enhanced instances of isolation that can become the reason for your depression. You should ensure to have a sufficient support system of relatives, friends, and neighbors. Try to make use of digital communications to bridge the gap when face-to-face contact isn't feasible.
• Check the Car It is very dangerous for older people to drive during the winter because of their diminishing reflexes. Have your car serviced ahead of wintertime or get help from a family member to get it done for you. It is crucial to verify things including the oil, tires, battery, and wipers to have minimum risk while riding on winter roads.