Older Adults at Risk from Winter Weather

 The Ohio Department of Aging says with the snow and cold temperatures forecasted for the next few days older adults are at risk of complications from the cold and snow. 

The Ohio Department of Aging urges older adults to have a plan to stay warm and injury free. 

Director of the Department Bonnie Burman said, "As we age bodies react differently to extreme conditions, in part because we lose body heat more quickly and also because we are more likely to take medications that affect our ability to regulate body temperature. 

Tips for preparing for winter weather include: 

• Create an emergency kit that contains a battery operated radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, a loud whistle or bell, food that you can open and prepare easily, water (one gallon per person per day), extra blankets and a first aid kit.
• Keep a backup supply of the medications you take every day. Have an ice chest on hand and keep ice packs in the freezer for medications that need to be kept cool.
• Make sure your medical equipment and assistive devices (such as canes, walkers, wheelchairs, lifts, oxygen tanks, etc.) are easy to locate in an emergency. Have spare batteries or non-powered options for any equipment that will not work if there is no electricity.
• Designate a safe place to go (such as a friend or neighbor’s house or shelter) and have a plan for getting there if it becomes unsafe to stay in your home.
• Be prepared to quickly explain to rescue personnel how to move you or help you move safely and rapidly (e.g., "take my oxygen tank," "get my insulin from the refrigerator").

The Department of Aging encourages all Ohioans to check on older loved ones and neighbors during extreme weather conditions.