Forecasters are predicting continued frigid temperatures and very cold wind chills across Ohio. Current temperatures are well below average for this time of year, with single-digit lows and negative wind-chill readings.<\/p>\n
\u201cOlder adults are at increased risk for complications from conditions including snow, ice, bitter cold and more. Factors like age-related changes and medication side effects can intensify the impact,\u201d said Beverley Laubert, Interim Director of the department. \u201cExtremely cold temperatures equal severe weather, and we ask all Ohioans to check on older loved ones, neighbors and friends during this and other severe weather.\u201d<\/p>\n
Check on your neighbors<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 Before, during and after severe winter conditions, check in on older loved ones, friends and neighbors to ensure that they are okay and have the resources they need to remain safe and healthy.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Do they need medical attention? Have they fallen? Are they staying warm enough? Are they taking their medicines as prescribed?<\/p>\n
\u2022 Do they have safe food and water? Are they eating and drinking regularly?<\/p>\n
\u2022 Is the temperature in their home comfortable? Do they have safe means to heat the home if temperatures continue to fall?<\/p>\n
\u2022 Whom will they call if they need help? Do they have access to a phone that will work without power or landline service?<\/p>\n
\u2022 Be aware that confusion, disorientation and irritability can be symptoms of conditions such as dehydration, stress and fatigue. If someone appears ill or is injured, call 9-1-1 immediately.<\/p>\n
Be prepared<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 All Ohioans should have a winter preparedness plan that enables them to remain in place for three days if they become unable to leave their homes due to weather conditions. Each household should have an emergency kit that contains, at a minimum, a battery operated radio, flashlight, extra batteries, a loud whistle or bell, food you can open and prepare easily, water (one gallon per person per day), extra blankets and a first aid kit.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Older adults may have a few additional considerations:<\/p>\n
\u2022 A backup supply of daily medicines and the means to store them properly;<\/p>\n
\u2022 Ready access to medical equipment and assistive devices (e.g., canes, walkers, wheelchairs, lifts, oxygen tanks, etc.) as well as spare batteries and non-powered options;<\/p>\n
\u2022 A safe place to go if it becomes unsafe to stay in your home (e.g., public shelter, friend\u2019s or neighbor\u2019s house) and a plan for getting there; and<\/p>\n
\u2022 Instructions for rescue personnel to help you relocate safely and quickly in an emergency.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Your preparation should also include a plan for safely keeping the temperature in your home comfortable. Use only space heaters that have been tested and certified to the latest safety standards, and do not leave a space heater unattended. Never use a kitchen stove or any other appliance not designed to heat your home for that purpose.<\/p>\n
Wintry precipitation, such as snow and freezing rain, also increases the risk of a potentially life-changing fall for older Ohioans. If you must go out in wintry conditions, wear boots or shoes that fit properly and have good traction. Bundle up to stay warm, but make sure you can see and move freely. Slow down and give yourself extra time to get where you\u2019re going. Try to walk only on surfaces that have been cleared and treated for ice and snow. Use handrails whenever possible. When in doubt, ask for help.<\/p>\n
Find help in your community<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 The Department of Aging works with the state\u2019s 12 area agencies on aging to make sure that each community has a plan for assisting older adults during weather emergencies. Your area agency can also help you identify resources, such as energy assistance, chore service and minor home repairs that can help you stay warm and safe this winter. Call 1-866-243-5678 to be connected to the agency serving your community.<\/p>\n
\u2022 More emergency preparedness advice and resources are available on the department\u2019s website: www.aging.ohio.gov\/safeathome<\/p>\n
\u2022 Follow the Ohio Department of Aging on Facebook and Twitter for more winter safety information and resources all winter long.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Department of Aging is a proud member of the Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness, along with the Ohio Emergency Management Agency. Visit www.ready.ohio.gov for information on winter safety and severe weather preparedness.<\/p>\n
About ODA – The Ohio Department of Aging works to ensure that our elders are respected as vital members of society who continue to grow, thrive and contribute. We collaborate with state agencies and community partners, including area agencies on aging, to help integrate aging needs into local plans and ensure that aging Ohioans have access to a wide array of high-quality services and supports that are person-centered in policy and practice. Our programs include the PASSPORT Medicaid waiver, caregiver support, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more. Visit www.aging.ohio.gov.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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