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| Seniors Urged to Prepare for Winter |
The Illinois Department on Aging is urging Illinois' elderly to prepare now for the cold winter ahead. Director Charles Johnson says topping the "to do" list should be to get a flu shot. Johnson says the flu season usually runs from November until April.
"People 50 and older and considered most at risk," Johnson said. "I hope that older people and those that care for them will take practical moves now in anticipation of the cold weather ahead."
The department is offering tips for preparing homes as well. Older people are advised to set the thermostats above 65 degrees. A lowered thermostat could cause hypothermia. At increased risk are older people who take certain medications, lack proper nutrition and those that have certain medical conditions such as arthritis, stroke, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. The department also recommends that furnaces be checked.
Those having difficulty paying for the heating bill may be eligible for assistance through the state’s annual Keep Warm campaign. Seniors are encouraged to apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Information can be found by calling 877 411-WARM.
The department also offers the following advice:
* Dress in layers, both indoors and outdoors.
* Keep active.
* Eat well and drink 10 glasses of water per day
* Keep extra medication in the house
* Winterize your home
* Make sure family members know how to shut off the water supply
* Do not shovel snow or walk in deep snow.
More general information can be found by calling the Department on Aging Senior Helpline at 800 252-8966.
(Illinois Radio Network) |
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| 12 02 08 by Newsroom |
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