TOMS RIVER – With snowy weather and plunging temperatures affecting everyone, Ocean County leaders are urging the county’s 160,000 older adults to be especially prepared.
More than 1.6 million older Americans go to the emergency room each year for fall-related injuries. One major cause of a fall is ice and black ice. To lessen the chances of a fall, seniors should be cautious of the type of footwear used. The elderly should also have a simple handrail installed where needed to help them maintain balance.
Another concern for the elderly is hypothermia. All residents should keep their home’s thermostat at 68 degrees or above and dress in layers of loose fitting clothes. They should also keep their head covered while outdoors.
Residents are urged to check in on their elderly neighbors, as well as with family and friends, during the winter weather. “When the weather changes and temperatures plummet, we need to make sure everyone is properly cared for,” said Ocean County Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari.