Older Americans Face Added Risks at Home in Winter

01/05/2010

When it comes to health insurance and homeowners insurance, older Americans may find themselves more at risk for the various issues that can present themselves during the winter months.

A recent announcement from the Illinois Department on Aging noted that as people grow older, they can become more vulnerable to sickness brought on by cold temperatures. With that in mind, keeping a home's thermostat set to 65 degrees is advisable. Other risk factors for such illness can be brought on depending on the medications that one takes, as well as their alcohol intake and overall nutrition.

With this in mind, it's particularly important for older Americans to keep their homes winterized and to do so in a fire-safe fashion. For example, keeping a fire extinguisher on hand is recommended, as is insulating attics and walls, weather-stripping doors and keeping pipes insulated - especially since this helps avoid damage from frozen and burst pipes.

A properly winterized and fire-safe home will also have any space heaters kept at least three feet away from any flammable materials, and electrical cords that are not overloaded.

When it comes to protecting one's health, the department advises people to consider getting an H1N1 vaccination this winter and to dress in layers, even while indoors. Other tips include keeping active and well-exercised and drinking plenty of water.

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