Cold Wisconsin winters can affect your loved one’s health as well as comfort. You want them to stay safe, but winter brings with it some real risks: falls, illness, and isolation. From warm clothes, to home safety checks, we have some tips that can help make cold days easier for seniors and the disabled.

Why Cold Weather Safety Matters for Seniors & the Disabled

As we age, our bodies lose heat more quickly, and it becomes harder to notice when we’re getting too cold. Even minor temperature drops can lead to serious concerns. Awareness and early preparation are key parts of effective winter care for our loved ones.

According to the National Institute on Aging, indoor temps should stay above 68°F. Keeping homes consistently warm supports healthy circulation and prevents hypothermia.

Some tips to stay warm:

Dress in layers; thin inner layers topped with cozy sweaters or jackets.
Use blankets over the lap and feet while sitting.
Wear a hat, gloves, and scarf when heading outdoors.
Close off unused rooms, and seal windows or doors using weather strips.

Preparing the Home for Cold Weather Emergencies

Severe winter weather preparations for a loved one starts with a safe, prepared home. A well-stocked space reduces stress and protects older adults from unexpected problems during storms or power outages.

Key steps include the “prepare, be aware, and take care” approach:

Prepare: Store at least three days’ worth of food, water, and medicine.
Be aware: Check heating systems before winter begins, and keep flashlights with new batteries handy.
Take care: Add rugs or slippers to prevent cold feet and slips.
Also, make sure carbon monoxide and smoke alarms work properly, as heating equipment can increase fire risk.

Recognizing and Preventing Hypothermia

Even when inside, loved ones could become dangerously cold. Hypothermia happens when the body temperature falls below 95°F, and could quickly become life-threatening. This condition is particularly concerning because, as we age, our ability to regulate body heat diminishes.

Recognizing the signs early is vital to preventing severe consequences. Symptoms such as shivering, cold or pale skin, slowed breathing, and confusion can be subtle yet signal the onset of hypothermia. Additionally, drowsiness and clumsy hands may also appear. Therefore, keeping living areas consistently warm, ideally above 68°F, is essential.

To help maintain a safe environment, consider incorporating warm beverages and nutritious meals into daily routines. This not only helps maintain body temperature, but also boosts overall wellness. Wearing comfy, dry clothing indoors and avoiding alcohol (which can reduce body heat) are simple yet effective measures. Moreover, frequent Prime Horizon caregiver check-ins and warm meals contribute significantly to maintaining comfort and safety.

Supporting Emotional Health during the Winter Months

Fewer daylight hours can often bring on feelings of loneliness. Staying emotionally connected is as vital as physical health during winter for the elderly and the disabled.

Encourage communication and consistency:

Schedule daily check-in phone calls, and make time for meaningful conversation.
Plan regular visits or shared meals, and help with household tasks. Prime Horizon can help.
Join online groups or local senior centers.
Indoor activities, like puzzles, crafts, reading, or music, help keep minds sharp and moods positive.

Planning for Emergencies and Unexpected Winter Storms

Comprehensive care for a loved one includes being prepared—for power failures and medical needs. Emergency kits offer peace of mind, and can save lives during a cold snap. (See ReadyWisconsin’s Emergency Supply List)

• What to Include FOR OLDER ADULTS:

A 3–5-day supply of medications
ID band (full name, contact for family member/caregiver, and allergies)
Hearing aids and extra batteries
Glasses or contacts and contact solution
Information about medical devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, and oxygen
Keep important documents in a water-proof bag. They may include Power of attorney and/or medical power of attorney documents, and copies of insurance or Medicare cards.

• What to Include FOR THOSE WITH PHYSICAL DISABILITIES:

This checklist includes medical devices, assistive technology devices, and supplies for people with physical disabilities.
(Full Emergency Checklist for Disabilities /DHS.WI)

Stethoscope, Blood pressure cuff, Respiratory devices
Kits for ostomy, urostomy, and/or wound care supplies
Medical alert devices, special dietary needs and medications
Heavy gloves for wheeling
Small mechanic’s toolkit, Bicycle tire pump and tire repair kit, WD-40
Magnifying glass, Scissors, Small sewing kit, Paper/notebook and pencil/pen
Communication devices, Mobility Devices, Prosthetic/Orthotic devices
Assistive technology devices

• What to Include FOR THOSE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS:

In addition to supplies needed for a general emergency, you may need to add several things to help yourself or loved ones with special needs.

Copy of care plan
List of behavioral triggers and medical needs
Bring familiar items that will help those with autism or other developmental disorders adjust to new surroundings. A list of any communication difficulties, including the best way to communicate with your or a loved one.
Your IEP and any medical records or evaluations on hand
Pack any needed assisted technology devices and don’t forget chargers.
iPads (and other medical equipment) used to communicate. Bring headphones or earplugs to help with noises.
Consider a roll of duct tape to help create visible perimeters of your space in a communal-style shelter.

(Help those with Autism/AutismSpeaks.org)

Final Thoughts on Winter Care

Caring for seniors and persons with disabilities during the rough winter months requires preparation, attention, and compassion. By maintaining warm homes, nutritious meals, emotional connection, and daily activity, older adults can enjoy safe and fulfilling winters. Families, neighbors, and caregivers all play a role in helping seniors stay warm, well, and supported during the coldest days.

Essential Winter Care for Seniors and the Disabled