Cold Weather Safety Reminder

As we welcome the month of February and face the bone-chilling cold impacting much of the United States, please remember to practice cold-weather safety.

One of the great advantages of living here at The Commons – Corewell Health Senior Living is that most of your needs are conveniently located under one roof—a standard of comfort that sets the best senior living communities apart. You don’t have to go outside unless you choose to. If you do need to venture out, please keep the following tips in mind:

• Check the weather forecast and plan ahead so you can choose the best day to go out.
• On windy, cold, or damp days, limit the amount of time you spend outdoors.
• Let someone know when you plan to go out and bring a fully charged mobile phone with you.
• Walk like a penguin—short steps and a slow pace can help prevent falls.
• Bundle up and cover as much exposed skin as possible.
• Wear a hat, scarf, and gloves or mittens to reduce heat loss from your head and hands.
• Dress in warm, loose layers. The air between layers helps keep you warm.
• Choose a waterproof coat or jacket if it’s snowy or rainy.
• Wear nonskid, rubber-soled, low-heeled footwear, ideally waterproof boots that keep your feet warm and dry.

Extreme cold temperatures can cause frostbite in just minutes, so please take precautions. Before going outdoors, take time to stretch—our bodies tend to tighten up in cold weather, which can increase the risk of injury if you slip or exert yourself, such as when lifting items.

My goal is for you to continue to age gracefully in place, in the way that feels right for you. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. Reach out to Corewell Health Senior Living at (800) 642-4663.

Warm regards,

Marcia