CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — With frigid temperatures and the potential for accumulating wintry precipitation expected in the Champaign-Urbana area this weekend, local aging and health advocates are reminding residents to take extra steps to keep older adults safe.
Officials say older adults are significantly more vulnerable to winter-related hazards, including falls, snow shoveling, hypothermia, and power outages. Those with chronic medical conditions or mobility limitations face an even higher risk during periods of extreme cold.
To stay safe during this weekend’s potential storm, older adults are encouraged to take the following precautions:
- Gather a support team of helpers in case of emergency.
- Make arrangements for snow removal to reduce risk of stress and injury.
- Charge cell phones and other electronic devices.
- Gather water, a battery-operated radio, extra batteries, food that can be prepared without electricity, extra blankets, and a first aid kit.
- Check medication supplies to ensure there is enough to last through the storm.
- If medical equipment is used that requires electricity, contact a health care provider to discuss what to do in the event of a power loss.
- Dress in layers.
- Use non-slip mats at doors.
Family members, friends, and neighbors can also play an important role in keeping older adults safe during winter weather:
- Help stock the home with essentials such as food, water, batteries, and medication.
- Prepare emergency contact lists and develop back-up caregiving plans.
- Monitor utilities and ensure the home maintains a comfortable indoor temperature.
- Check in regularly on loved ones.
- Watch for signs of hypothermia, including shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, or drowsiness. If these symptoms are observed, seek medical help immediately.
Local officials say taking these steps ahead of time can help older adults across Champaign-Urbana remain safe, warm, and connected during periods of severe winter weather.