Wintertime presents hazards beyond snowstorms

Last week we talked about the best ways to be prepared for a snowstorm. It occurred to me that winter is more than the random nor’easter. We still must contend with cold temperatures, less sunlight, and icy roads and walkways.

Meteorologists are probably more popular this time of year than any other, as we hang on their every word in order to remain informed of the latest conditions. Some of the terms can be a bit confusing, however. For instance, there are “watches,” “warnings” and “advisories.” I did a little research to determine exactly what each term means.

. Winter storm watch: A storm is likely. Be alert and continue to monitor weather reports.

. Winter storm warning: The storm is either in, or entering, the area. When you hear this, it is time to take action. Check to make sure that your storm preparedness measures are in place.

. Winter weather advisory: Some messy weather is expected, so beware. Conditions could turn hazardous, especially for motorists.

Even without storms to worry about, winter can be a particularly tough season for elderly, fraught with hidden dangers.

“Older people are susceptible to hypothermia because their systems have started to slow down, they are less active, and it is more difficult to maintain body heat,” said Cheri Volta, paramedic for Capital Ambulance.

“This can be compounded by heart disease, lung disease and diabetes, to name a few. And some medications, such as those for asthma and high blood pressure, can constrict veins reducing blood flow – making it harder for the body to stay warm as the temperature drops.”

The first signs of hypothermia are confusion, drowsiness and slurred speech, said Volta. In fact, she adds, caregivers need to be especially aware because sometimes these symptoms are mistaken for the natural signs of aging, slight dementia, or drug side effects when in reality hypothermia could be setting in.

Hypothermia can happen very quickly, before an elderly person even realizes it. A drop in body temperature to 95 degrees is all it takes for symptoms to begin. There are some precautions that you can take, said Volta.

“Wear a hat! It is the best way to maintain body heat,” said Volta. “Forty percent of body heat is lost through the head and neck. That’s a huge number. Wearing a hat and scarf is very important. Some people think wearing a heavy coat is enough, and it helps, but wear a hat to help maintain body heat.”

Volta also recommends dressing in layers which can be removed should you become too warm. “Watch for becoming overheated,” she said. “Sweating can whisk heat away from the body and lead to hypothermia.”

Frostbite is another cold-weather problem for everyone, but especially the elderly – and for many of the same reasons at hypothermia.

As the body ages and slows down, it simply can’t work as hard to maintain body heat. Spending time outdoors, either shoveling the steps or taking a winter walk, can result in frostbite if certain precautions are not taken. Be sure to stay covered up as much as possible. Exposed areas of the face, such as cheeks, nose, chin, forehead and ears, are in particular danger, as well as wrists, hands and feet.

One senior citizen who enjoys clearing his driveway with a snowblower said that obtaining a protective “hood” for the snowblower has helped him weather the weather. In addition, he wears ski goggles that fit over his regular eyeglasses. Last, he doesn’t clean the yard all at once after a storm – he takes breaks, a method that helps him preserve both body heat and his energy.

Remember that frostbitten skin is whitish and stiff, and will feel numb rather than painful. If you detect signs of frostbite, come inside quickly and call your doctor. It is important to seek medical advice.

Dehydration, which can cause mental confusion, is another risk that older individuals face.

“Hot-air furnaces, wood-burning stoves and radiant heat can be drying to the body,” said Gail Ward, director of nutrition at Meals for Me, a program of Eastern Agency on Aging. “Dehydration can stress the body systems. Adequate water intake is important to staying hydrated. Be sure to get six to eight glasses of fluid each day.

“Nourishing soups, stews and chowders supply needed nutrients and fluids that provide warmth to our bodies. Boost your favorite stew or soup recipes by adding extra lean meat or other protein. Use evaporated skim milk or dry milk powder to make chowders richer and healthier. Leftovers added to low-sodium canned soups can add flavor and nourishment. Make extra and freeze for a quick warm-me-up meal. Remember this winter to fuel your body and eat for heat!” Ward added.

Staying warm can be a challenge. If you have a fireplace, remember that it will heat only the immediate area. However, it also will draw cold air in through the rest of the house and draw much of your heat up the chimney, according to Gary Bray, fire inspector with the Bangor Fire Department.

“Fireplaces are fine to use, but they need to be in good condition, well-maintained and cleaned professionally,” said Bray. He cautions against burning papers and other debris, which can cause the fires to get too big to easily handle.

Space heaters are another popular choice for seniors trying to keep warm while saving money. Heaters that use wood, coal, natural gas or kerosene can produce carbon monoxide gas.

Ventilation is essential. Opening a window may seem like defeating the purpose of trying to heat the house, but it’s important because the fumes can be fatal. Bray also stresses the importance of refilling the heater outside. Also, be careful not to refuel the heater until it has cooled. If fuel spills onto hot surfaces, fire could result.

“The best thing is to make sure the heater is tested by UL and used in strict compliance with the instructions,” said Bray. “If someone has questions about fire safety, they can call us and we’d be glad to answer their questions. Call 945-4400, Extension 131 or 225.”

Well, that about does it for winter tips. And take heart – the first day of spring is a mere 42 days away.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging. For information on EAA log onto www.eaaa.org or call 941-2865 and ask for Marilyn or Chuck.