Lima, OH – With frigid weather temperatures approaching in the coming days, Area Agency on Aging 3 would like to make sure that the vulnerable older adults population remains safe during this time.

According to the National Library of Medicine, 63% of temperature-related deaths are caused by exposure to cold. If you are an older adult or are a caregiver, preparedness is crucial to staying safe during these excessively cold days. In addition to preparedness, it’s also important to remember the hazards of cold weather.

“The vulnerable population that we serve will find it harder to stay warm and this weather can have adverse effects on health and cause dangerous issues. The CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) has reported that 85% of older adults in the U.S. have at least one chronic illness. This weather can impede older adults in getting the critical services that they need and may cause symptoms, conditions, and chronic illnesses to worsen,” Jacqi Lucke, CEO of Area Agency on Aging 3 stated.

Hazards of cold weather include; falls of slippery surfaces, frostbite on exposed skin, hypothermia, low body temperature, and isolation. Be prepared for the cold by avoiding falls, know the signs of hypothermia, be aware of the effects of the weather on chronic conditions, be prepared for power outages, create an emergency plan, stay warm and safe indoors, and have food and medicine on hand during severe weather.

Keys things to remember is generator safety as well as using portable heaters safely. It’s also important to stay informed, preserve heat, stay warm by bundling up and eat regularly to help produce body heat. Make sure to check on older family members, friends and neighbors to make sure they have what they need during these cold days.

For more information about older adult safety in the winter weather go to www.fema.gov or visit the National Institute on Aging at www.nia.nih.gov.

In the event of severe weather, Area Agency on Aging 3 will post regularly on social media regarding their hours of operation. It is important to stay indoors and only go out if absolutely necessary. If you need to speak to someone at AAA3, the Aging and Disability Resource Center is open M-F from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and available to answer questions,  even if the office is closed

For over 50 years, Area Agency on Aging 3 has been a leader in helping those who desire safe, dignified, independent living. It has been the privilege at Area Agency on Aging 3 for 50 years to assist older adults, persons with disabilities and their family caregivers. Area Agency on Aging 3 was founded in October of 1974, serving 19 total counties throughout western Ohio with over 150 employees.

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