Seniors: Stay Safe This Winter
Winter can be a beautiful season—but it also brings some real risks, especially for older adults. Cold temperatures, icy sidewalks, and power outages can turn daily routines into serious challenges. The good news? A little planning can go a long way toward keeping you safe and warm this winter.
Here are some simple steps to help protect yourself at home and when you’re out and about.
Watch Your Step
Slips and falls are one of the biggest winter risks for seniors. Ice, snow, and wet floors can make it easy to lose your footing.
Wear shoes with good traction. Look for soles with non-slip grips. Many stores carry winter-specific footwear.
Take small, slow steps. Don’t rush, and use handrails if available.
Use a cane or walker if you need it. You can even add an ice-grip tip to help with traction.
Have someone shovel or salt walkways. If you live alone, ask a family member or neighbor to come help. You can also hire someone to salt and shovel during winter weather.
Dress for the Cold
Older adults lose body heat faster than younger people. That means staying warm isn’t just about comfort, it’s about staying safe.
Layer up. Wear thermal undergarments, sweaters, and a weather-resistant coat.
Cover your head, hands, and feet. Heat escapes through these areas, so wear gloves, a warm hat, and thick socks.
Avoid tight clothes. You want layers that keep you warm but allow your blood to flow properly.
Stay dry. Wet clothes can lead to hypothermia. Change out of damp items as soon as you’re indoors.
What Is Hypothermia?
Hypothermia happens when your body temperature drops below 95°F. It can be life-threatening. Signs include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Seniors are especially at risk because their bodies may not respond to cold as quickly.
To stay safe:
Keep your home at a steady, warm temperature (around 68°F or warmer).
Wear layers even when you’re indoors if your home tends to be chilly.
Don't wait to call for help if you or someone else shows signs of hypothermia.
Prep Your Home for Winter
Whether you're staying in or heading out, your home should be a safe place all winter long.
Check your heating. Make sure your furnace is working well and that space heaters are used safely. If you use a fireplace, get an inspection and have the fireplace cleaned once a year.
Keep a flashlight and extra batteries nearby. Power outages are more common in winter storms.
Use rugs and non-slip mats indoors. Wet boots can lead to slippery floors.
Have your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors tested. These are extra important if you’re using space heaters or a fireplace.
Build a Winter Emergency Kit
It’s always smart to be ready in case of a storm, power outage, or getting stuck inside for a few days. Here’s what to keep on hand:
Bottled water and easy-to-eat, non-perishable food
Flashlights and extra batteries
Extra blankets or sleeping bags
A fully charged phone or battery bank
A week’s supply of your medications
Hand warmers or heating pads (battery-powered or microwaveable)
A list of emergency contacts
Drive With Extra Care
Even experienced drivers can struggle on icy or snowy roads. If you do need to drive in winter weather:
Wait until roads are cleared and salted.
Keep an emergency kit in your car. Include a blanket, snacks, a flashlight, and a phone charger.
Drive slowly. Icy roads require extra time to stop or turn.
Avoid steep hills or unplowed areas.
Let someone know where you're going. And when you plan to return.
If driving makes you nervous, consider local senior transportation services or ask a family member or friend for help.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Winter can make even simple errands a little more difficult. If you’re nervous about driving or walking outside, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Many communities have senior transportation options, meal delivery programs, or volunteers willing to help with snow removal or errands.
Your safety matters—and it’s okay to take extra steps to protect yourself when the weather turns cold.
Sources:
National Institute on Aging: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/safety/cold-weather-safety-older-adults
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/winter-weather/about/index.html
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/winter-weather/prevention/index.html
American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/winter-storm.html