The environmental conditions during winter in
Illinois poses a health risk to all residents, especially those in
the older adult community. Older residents who do not have full
mobility or live in isolation should have a plan of action in
emergency weather conditions, such as snow storms and extremely cold
temperatures. Those living in isolation should also have a contact
to check in with during extreme winter weather situations.
IDoA has identified some health problems that can be brought on by
severe winter weather:
INFLUENZA
• The "flu" is a contagious respiratory infection. Symptoms include
fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose and soreness and
aching in the back, arms and legs.
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• For older persons who have a chronic health problem, the flu can
result in serious complications, such as pneumonia.
• Flu shots are recommended for all persons aged 65 years and older
and for those who suffer from chronic health problems, such as heart
disease, respiratory problems, renal disease, diabetes, anemia or
any disease that weakens the body's immune system (consult your
doctor before getting a flu shot on your own).
HYPOTHERMIA
• This is a condition brought on when the body temperature drops to
95 degrees or less.
• Symptoms include slow or slurred speech, incoherence, memory loss,
disorientation, uncontrollable shivering, drowsiness, repeated
stumbling and apparent exhaustion.
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![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2019/Jan/19/images/ads/current/graue_18_MALIBU_010719.png) • It is recommended that older
persons should not set their thermostats below 65 degrees during the
winter months.
• Even mild indoor temperatures of 60 - 65 degrees can trigger
hypothermia.
FROSTBITE
• Exposed areas of the face (cheeks, nose, chin and forehead), ears,
wrists, hands and feet are most affected by frostbite.
• Symptoms are loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance to the
skin.
• To treat frostbite, warm the affected part of the body gradually.
Wrap the frostbitten area in blankets, sweaters, coats, etc.
• Caution: Do not rub the affected areas, severe damage to the
tissue can occur.
The State of Illinois offers warming centers for all individuals to
escape the harsh winter cold. Local warming centers can be found at:
https://www2 .illinois.gov/ sites/KeepWarm/SitePages/
WarmingCenters. aspx, or by calling the toll-free Keep
Warm Illinois hotline at 1-877-411-WARM.
Please visit the IDoA website for more information on winter storm
safety preparedness at:
https://www.illinois.gov/ aging/Documents/winter_storm_
preparedness_guidebook.pdf
For more information about program services to assist older adults
in Illinois and their caregivers, contact the Department on Aging
Senior HelpLine at (800) 252-8966.
[Illinois Department on Aging]
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