The winter season brings with it festive cheer, hot cocoa, and cozy evenings indoors. Unfortunately, it also brings icy sidewalks, cold winds, snow-covered driveways, and slippery roads that can pose a serious risk to seniors. However, there are many simple steps that seniors can take to protect themselves! In this blog post, we will outline 8 winter safety tips for seniors and discuss how a senior living community can help you stay safe and happy during the Maine winter.

1. Dress For the Weather

Dressing warmly is essential for staying safe during the winter, especially for seniors who may be more susceptible to cold temperatures. Layers, including a winter coat, hat, gloves, and warm socks, can help you stay comfortable and prevent hypothermia. When going outside, wear shoes with non-skid soles (and clamp-ons for very icy days) to prevent slips and falls on icy surfaces. As the old saying goes, “There are no bad weather days – just bad clothing!”

2. Stay Active

Engaging in physical activity can help you maintain your strength, flexibility, and balance, which can reduce the risk of falls. Indoor exercises, such as yoga, stretching, or walking around the house, can provide a safe and comfortable way to stay active during the winter.

3. Prepare Your Home

Your home should be warm, dry, and safe during the winter months. Check your heating system to ensure that it is working correctly, and install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to prevent accidents. Clear walkways and driveways of snow and ice, or hire someone to do it for you.

At OceanView, any and all home maintenance needed is taken care of by our expert team. We have maintenance personnel on call 24-hours a day. This includes snowblowing, shoveling and sanding walkways and driveways during the winter season!

4. Seek Out Support

Winter can be isolating, especially for seniors who may have limited mobility or access to transportation. Reaching out to friends and family members for help with errands or activities can support you both with your transportation needs and connection to loved ones.

A retirement community like OceanView at Falmouth offers ample social activities, transportation services, and on-site amenities that provide a sense of community and support. 

5. Nourish Your Body

Eating a healthy and well-balanced diet is essential all year long, but it’s especially important during the winter months. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet, and avoid consuming too much alcohol or caffeine, as these can dehydrate your body.

6. Keep a Positive Outlook

Winter weather can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be unpleasant! Playing games, reading books, or exploring new hobbies can provide a source of joy and entertainment during the winter months. Keeping a positive attitude can also help you stay motivated, engaged, and happy.

7. Stay Hydrated

It may sound surprising, but seniors are more susceptible to dehydration during the winter months. Be sure to drink plenty of water and other fluids to help your body function correctly.

8. Be Prepared

Always be prepared for the worst-case scenario during the winter months. Keep a disaster kit on hand, including flashlights, water, food, and blankets in case of extreme weather conditions.

OceanView at Falmouth

Winter can be a challenging time for seniors, but with the right preparation and support, you can continue to live safely, happily, and independently. At OceanView at Falmouth, we offer a range of amenities, services, and activities that promote winter safety and well-being, including in-house dining, health services, transportation, and on-site social events. 

We invite you to learn more about our retirement community and how we can help you stay safe and comfortable during the Maine winter. Please contact us at OceanView today to schedule a visit or to request more information. Stay safe, warm, and happy this winter!