Tips For Keeping Seniors Safe In Michigan's Deep Freeze

DETROIT (WWJ) In these dangerously cold temperatures -- senior citizens are most vulnerable.

Jean Borin, Director of Community Services for Home Instead Senior Care in Livonia, told WWJ's Chrystal Knight there are numerous precautions you should take to protect your older loved ones.

Keeping them warm is number one.

"Hypothermia is huge for our seniors," Borin said. "Those over the age of 65 account for nearly half of hypothermia attacks."

As the body ages, the ability to maintain a normal internal body temperature decreases, creating an insensitivity to moderately cold temperatures.

Seniors may not realize they are putting themselves at risk until symptoms appear, experts say.

But how to stay warm when the temperatures dip below zero?

Home Instead Senior Care put out a press release saying seniors should keep the thermostat at 65 degrees, at least. Consistently check it to make sure your home is sufficiently warm.

"Even as heating costs rise, your safety should be a priority," the senior care center said.

Other tips include ensuring there is adequate insulation, cleaning furnace filters, filling drafts with socks, weather stripping windows and doors, keeping doors to unused rooms closed and closing curtains at night.

"Add an extra blanket to the bed and warm the bed in advance with a hot water bottle. Never use an electric blanket – it may be difficult to operate the controls if the temperature needs to be adjusted in the night.
Dress in layers of loose fitting clothing. If you go outside, make sure your head is covered," the center advised.

They also advise staying in touch in with family, friends and neighbors by scheduling phone calls, or enlisting the help of a professional caregiver to come in for an hour a week.

Make arrangements for assistance in case of a blizzard or power outage. Keep important numbers in an emergency kit, along with non-perishable foods, water and medications.