Seniors For Living

The winter weather hasn’t been too frightful in most parts of the country yet, but snow and ice and frigid temps are sure to come.

Extreme cold is no friend to seniors, so be prepared (or help a senior friend, neighbor or relative who lives alone) with these tips from Seniors Home Care, based in St. Louis:

1. Dress for the elements. If and when you go out, wear a hat (you lose up to 7 percent of your body heat without one), a scarf, and gloves; layer up and choose boots or other heavy-soled shoes that won’t slip and slide in the ice, slush or snow.
2. Get a flu/pneumonia shot. Check with your doctor to find out where you can get this extra level of protection against illness.
3. Bring in home care. Home care isn’t just for those with medical needs. You can bring someone in for just a few hours each week to help with household chores or drive you to the grocery store.
4. Stock up. Sign up for prescriptions to be delivered directly to your home, or if you can order in advance, stock up on what you need for the entire winter in one trip. Do the same with food and avoid the need to go out when the roads are slick.
5. Make plans for snow removal. Contract with a snow removal service (or the neighbor’s teenage sons).