Senior Living A special supplement to the Albert Lea Tribune Monday, January 20, 2014
Submitted
A resident at St. John’s Lutheran Home took a photo as Frosty the Snowman during an indoor winter carnival on Friday. The carnival included games, music and food.
Poor conditions can cause falls
By Tiffany Krupke
tiffany.krupke@albertleatribune.com
When the weather outside is frightful, the chance for accidents like slips and falls increases. Walking on the ice can be dangerous, particularly to people who already have mobility issues, such as senior citizens. Patty Peterson, a registered occupational therapist for the Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea, has spent 20 years working with patients in the area. She helps people do day-to-day tasks and help create plans to maximize well-being. During winter weather, people are more likely to break a bone, Peterson said, particularly in February and March when the snow begins to melt. When people aren’t used to the terrain change, they often slip and fall, the chance they will fall increases. Peterson said the icy conditions last year contributed to more broken bones than usual for people in the area. Peterson said seniors
need to be particularly mindful of weather conditions because they have an increased risk of getting hypothermia. “People typically experience a loss of circulation and sensation
as they age,” Peterson said. “This makes it harder for them to feel cold or notice the signs of hypothermia or exposure.” 4Safety, Page 3
Winter Safety Tips •Stay indoors during storms •Avoid driving during poor conditions •Walk carefully on snowy or icy walkways •Wear proper footwear and boot grips •Keep dry •Take breaks when shoveling snow •Watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia •Keep an emergency kit