WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – Winter weather can be fun and games until someone falls and gets hurt.
A winter storm is expected to hit the coastal region bringing snow and ice. Terri DeWees, Director of Trauma Services with Novant Health, says it’s important to watch out for the elderly during the freezing temperatures.
“We’re not used to this down here and so we have to think about it,” said DeWees. “Ice causes falls, and falls cause injuries,” she added.
The most common injuries can be broken hands, wrists, or hips. If you catch yourself falling on ice, DeWees says it’s important to protect the head first.
“Head injuries are the most difficult things to recover from,” said DeWees. “Older folks have a tendency to break their hips which can result in an extended period of recovery,” she added.
If you slip and fall on ice, DeWees says to try to crawl to a spot that is ice-free before standing back up. If an elderly person falls, help should be called immediately. When going out into the snow, it’s important to wear the right shoes to help prevent injury. Now is the time to pull out the winter boots, or shoes that have good traction.
“Historically when we have ice and or snow we see an increase in falls, we see an increase in motor vehicle accidents. My advice is don’t go out if you don’t have to and if you do have to go out, be very careful be aware of your surroundings and watch out for other folks,” said DeWees.
According to the National Institute of Aging, older people are more likely to be affected by the cold. The elderly may not be aware when their body temperature becomes too cold, which can become a health hazard.
Medical conditions like diabetes, or thyroid issues can make it harder to keep a regular body temperature. It is adviced to keep a close eye on elderly friends during the winter storm.
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