Outdoor Winter Safety for Seniors

When the weather is cold, icy, and snowy outside, its tempting to just forego all your outdoor activities and stay inside. But staying active is important for a healthy senior lifestyle, so there are some aspects of winter weather that we just cant avoid when shopping or visiting friends or family. But you can be sure that youll stay safe in all kinds of winter weather with these easy tips for seniors below. Layer up. When its time to go outdoors, wear several layers of warm fabrics to be sure youre well insulated. As seniors, we tend to be more sensitive to the cold due to several factors including medical conditions so its important to dress appropriately for the temperatures outside. Wear shoes with a good grip. Slips and falls can be devastating when youre living an active lifestyle, because an injury can really slow you down. Avoid injuries from slips in icy weather by wearing shoes with a good tread on the soles that are designed to help you grip the surface in slippery conditions. Wear your hat and scarf. Some people dont like hats, but theyre an important tool for staying safe in the cold winter air because heat escapes when your head isnt covered. Choose a warm hat that ideally covers your ears as well, as well as a warm knit or lined scarf to keep cold off your neck and chin. Dont stay in wet clothes. As soon as you get inside and are able, change your clothes if the ice and snow outside got your clothes wet. Wet or damp clothes just make it harder for your body to retain heat, even when youre staying inside for the rest of the day. Limit your outdoor activities. Its healthy to stay active, but on cold days, especially if you have a medical condition, its safer to limit your outdoor exposure to short walks or quick trips to the store. Round out your daily exercise routine indoors by walking in hallways or indoor facilities and exercising in a gym, like our fitness center here at Ashbridge Manor. Stay safe this winter with outdoor safety tips for seniors. and if youre considering a transition to a senior living apartment, contact us at Ashbridge Manor Senior Living. Our professional senior living specialists will help you choose the right floorplan for your active senior lifestyle. Were located at 971 E. Lancaster Avenue in Downingtown, PA. To reach us, call 610.269.8800 or contact us online for more information. Ask us about our move-in special! Ashbridge Manor is a safe, COVID-free senior living community.