Blog: Advantage Home Health Solutions Logo 

We want to help you understand what options are available so you have the information you need to determine the best solution for you in your home. We welcome your inquiry!

Winning The War Against Winter’s Worst Weather Conditions

For many Canadians, this is a particularly tough time of year. The joy, exuberance and festive energy of the holidays are now far behind us. For the most part, we have a few months of bitter cold to look forward to. Such winter conditions can be particularly harsh for both older adults and individuals with mobility challenges.

In addition to extremely cold temperatures, we’re talking about icy sidewalks and snow-covered pathways. They present serious risks such as falls, frostbite and hypothermia. Who needs that? Obviously, it’s a requirement of all Canadians to stay safe and warm during this time of year. However, it requires a combination of careful planning and the right mobility solutions.

Layer up wisely.

It should go without saying that it’s important to bundle up. But, did you know that there is a particular strategy to bundling up that can bolster your battle against the cold? It’s a three-layer technique that starts with wearing a moisture-wicking base layer. For your second layer, use insulating fabrics such as fleece or wool. Your top outer layer should be wind-resistant and waterproof. This bundling up method helps to trap heat and keep moisture out.

For older adults, it’s wise to use easy-to-wear options. Garments with Velcro closures and magnetic buttons as well as side-zipped boots make dressing easier for those with limited dexterity. It’s also very important to protect the extremities. Wear insulated gloves, thermal socks and a hat that covers the ears. They all help to prevent heat loss. In addition, seniors may want to utilize hand warmers for added comfort.

Lina Fronzo of Annie’s Place also advises seniors to prioritize comfort and proper fit in winter footwear. “You can wear slip-resistant shoes with excellent traction to minimize the risk of slips and falls,” she writes, “Investing in high-quality winter boots will provide additional protection against the cold weather, keeping seniors warm.”

Winter-proof your home.

Most of us simply assume that shutting the windows and turning up the heat is all that is necessary to beat the cold during winter. Don’t neglect a few other important steps. You can both minimize the impact on your electrical bill and stay warm if you go around the house sealing drafts. Use weather stripping around doors and windows to prevent cold air from seeping in. “Another idea is to invest in quality thermal curtains and rugs to help insulate rooms,” adds Alberta’s Care At Home Services.

As well, ensure that your heating systems are in good working condition. You might want to consider a programmable thermostat to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. Have an emergency backup in the event of a power outage. A portable generator or battery-powered heater can come in very handy. Also, to prevent slips from melted snow and ice, place non-slip mats inside your doorways.

Stay active indoors.

During the winter, we’re all inclined to stay indoors for much longer durations. Naturally, it’s harder to be active outdoors when it’s so cold. This is why it’s so important to exercise indoors. It won’t just warm you up. Working out also helps you to maintain mobility and overall well-being. For seniors with mobility issues, chair exercises are ideal. From a seated position, you can perform numerous motions that help to improve circulation and flexibility.

You know that they say – don’t forget to stretch! Gentle stretching can reduce stiffness and prevent joint pain. Try low-impact activities as yoga or light strength training. They can both be done safely inside. If you’re unsure of technique, hop on to YouTube and you will find countless videos that show you just how to perform the exercises. You may even wish to join a virtual exercise class to provide you with both motivation and social interaction during the winter months.

“Seniors who live in a condominium or apartment building can make use of those long hallways to create an easy indoor walking routine,” points out Living Assistance Services, “Set a goal and walk ‘laps’ around common areas every day or a few times each week. If you don’t have access to this type of indoor space at home, consider visiting a local mall, library or community centre.”

Be prepared with an emergency kit.

Every winter, we’re bound to endure a storm or two. They can bring about challenges that are hard to contend with when you’re not prepared. Put together a well-stocked winter emergency kit. It should include a supply of medications and medical equipment; non-perishable food and bottled water; extra blankets and warm clothing; a first aid kit; flashlights and spare batteries; and a battery-powered radio for weather updates.

According to RATESDOTCA, “items such as toilet paper, hand sanitizer and other personal items should be included in the emergency kit. In case you run out, you’re prepared. Canadian winters can get pretty crazy, and emergency kits can save you from scrambling when the power goes out and can make the time during an outage more comfortable.”

Take advantage of mobility solutions for icy conditions.

No matter your age, walking on icy sidewalks and driveways can be hazardous. However, making use of the right mobility aids can provide you with stability that can reduce the risk of falling. Have you ever used an ice gripper with your cane? Attachments with metal spikes or rubber grips will improve traction on slippery surfaces. Have you ever used a walking pole? The ones that come with snow baskets offer additional support and stability.

If walking in snowy and icy conditions is simply too dangerous for you, it’s best to go with a mobility solution that can traverse the terrain for you. At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we stock a wide variety of 4 wheel outdoor mobility scooters! We have 4 wheel scooters and electric mobility scooter models available in a variety of sizes to suit your needs. Some models are great travel scooters that disassemble or fold for storage and travel.

We also have mid-sized multi-use scooters as well as large, more robust scooters that can effectively handle more challenging terrain. Our team always ensures that you have the complete picture of our products. To learn all about our mobility scooters, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!

Other Useful Information