While some say winter is the season to be merry, it's also the season for cold weather's most prevalent dangers: hypothermia, slips, falls and the flu. The elderly are especially susceptible to winter trauma and it is extremely important be aware of the risks they face.

Did you know?

• Older adults are at greater risk for cold injuries because the body's ability to maintain a constant internal temperature decreases with age. Research shows that thousands of vulnerable, elderly people are dying unnecessarily each year because their homes are too cold.
• Slips and falls occur more commonly in the winter months due to snow and ice accumulation. A slip or fall outside may force an elderly person to lie outside for long periods of time before anyone finds them. If they are not properly dressed, hypothermia can set in on top of any injury from the fall.
• Older adults are at the greatest risk of getting complications from the flu, such as pneumonia and dehydration. The elderly have diminished cough and gag reflexes. Their immune systems are also not as strong.

Safety Precautions
If you have an elderly relative or neighbor that lives alone, there are special precautions you can take to help ensure their safety.

Call or stop by each day to make sure they are okay. If you don't live nearby – have a friend or neighbor stop by to check in. Elderly people who live by themselves should be in touch with someone at least once a day.

If they become ill – urge them to see their physician. Take them to the appointment if necessary.

Key telephone numbers, such as their family physician, emergency ambulance services, a relative or close friend or both, and a community emergency number, such as 9-1-1, should be placed on the refrigerator door as a reminder to you and those who may need to help.

American Red Cross Solutions
If you need to provide care for an elderly relative or parent, the American Red Cross can help. The Red Cross Family Caregiving program offers you a helping hand by providing information that can help you provide the best care possible for your loved one. Topics include home safety, healthy eating, bathing, positioning and helping your loved one move, and legal and financial issues. There's even a section that helps you take care of yourself as the caregiver.

Choose from two learning options:

1. Attend any or all of our nine one-hour presentations in your community to learn the skills you need to care for your loved one in a home setting.
2. Click here for details on the Family Caregiving Reference Guide and DVD set and learn on your own when it is convenient for you.

Family Caregiving Reference Guide and DVD Set Stock No. 653957

In addition to the Family Caregiving program, the Red Cross works with Philips Lifeline to promote personal response services to seniors and the physically challenged. To date, the Red Cross and Philips Lifeline have provided personal response to more than 50,000 seniors, allowing them to continue living independently while offering peace of mind to those who care for them. With Philips Lifeline, older adults living at home have access to assistance whenever it's needed with just a push of a button—24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If you are interested in learning more, click here to visit the Philips Lifeline Web site.

To learn more about American Red Cross programs and services, contact your local Red Cross chapter or visit www.redcross.org. To order materials, contact your local chapter visit www.shopstaywell.com or call (800) 667-2968.

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