Winter in Wisconsin can be a picturesque wonderland, with glistening snow, twinkling holiday lights, and cozy indoor activities. But when you’re a senior, winter comes with its fair share of challenges—from icy walkways to health concerns triggered by the cold. At Great Lakes Senior Living, we understand the unique needs of our elderly residents, and we go above and beyond to ensure their safety, comfort, and happiness throughout the season. With our three locations in Beloit, Milton, and Waterford, we take winter safety seriously, making it a priority to protect our community members while helping them maintain their independence.

So, what exactly are we doing to ensure winter safety for the elderly in Beloit, WI? Let’s dive into the steps we take to keep our residents safe during the coldest months of the year—and what you can do to help keep your loved ones protected, too.

Why Winter Safety for the Elderly Matters

Winter safety for the elderly is more than just about preventing slips and falls—although that’s definitely a big part of it! It’s about recognizing that as we age, our bodies react differently to the cold. From slower reaction times to weakened immune systems, seniors face heightened risks during winter, whether they’re inside or out.

Here in Beloit, where temperatures can easily dip into the single digits, keeping warm and staying safe is no small feat. At Great Lakes Senior Living, we’re not just preparing for icy sidewalks and bitter winds—we’re making sure every aspect of our residents’ lives is protected. In 2024, winter safety is more important than ever, especially with fluctuating weather patterns causing unpredictable storms and temperature changes. But don’t worry, we’ve got it covered.

Keeping Residents Safe at Great Lakes Senior Living

Ensuring Safe Walkways and Entrances

One of the biggest risks for seniors during winter is slipping on icy or snowy sidewalks. At Great Lakes Senior Living, we don’t wait for a storm to hit to start preparing. Our maintenance teams are always on standby, ready to shovel, salt, and de-ice every inch of our outdoor areas, ensuring safe walkways and entrances. In Beloit, our team takes extra precautions due to the frequent freezing and thawing cycles, which can create hidden patches of ice.

And it’s not just about safety—it’s about allowing our residents to enjoy the outdoors when they want. We believe fresh air is vital for mental well-being, so we make sure it’s accessible without the risk.

Staying Warm and Cozy Indoors

While the outdoors might be cold and unpredictable, the inside of our communities is anything but. Every apartment at Great Lakes Senior Living is equipped with modern heating systems to keep rooms at a comfortable temperature. Our staff regularly checks these systems to make sure everything is working properly, especially during the coldest days of winter. We also provide cozy blankets and warm beverages to make sure our residents are always snug and comfortable, whether they’re enjoying time in the common areas or relaxing in their rooms.

And for those who need a little extra warmth, we offer individualized care plans. This might mean additional room checks for residents who are more sensitive to the cold, or providing extra layers of clothing to ensure they stay comfortable.

Preventing Winter-Related Health Issues

Winter doesn’t just bring cold air—it brings a wave of seasonal illnesses like colds and the flu. This can be especially concerning for seniors, whose immune systems may not be as strong as they once were. In 2024, with concerns about new strains of viruses and the ongoing impact of seasonal illnesses, staying healthy is more important than ever.

At Great Lakes Senior Living, we offer flu vaccinations to all our residents and encourage frequent hand-washing and sanitation to prevent the spread of germs. Our team is trained to recognize early signs of illness, ensuring quick treatment to prevent complications.

And it’s not just about responding to illness—we’re also proactive. We provide immune-boosting nutrition through our meal programs, which are designed to keep residents healthy from the inside out. Think hearty soups, vitamin-rich vegetables, and plenty of hydration options, all perfect for combating winter health risks.

Tips for Families: Helping Your Loved Ones Stay Safe

While we take every precaution to keep our residents safe at Great Lakes Senior Living, we know that many families want to take an active role in their loved one’s care. Here are some easy winter safety tips that can help when you visit or when your loved one is at home:

• Dress in Layers: Encourage your loved one to wear layers of clothing that can be easily adjusted based on the temperature indoors and outdoors. Start with a base layer of thermal or moisture-wicking fabric, add a warm middle layer, and finish with a weather-resistant coat or jacket.
• Keep Walkways Clear: If your loved one is living independently or in a private residence, make sure all walkways are clear of snow and ice. Even a small patch of ice can lead to a dangerous fall.
• Check the Heating System: Make sure their home’s heating system is working efficiently. If possible, keep the thermostat at a consistent temperature between 68°F and 72°F.
• Hydration is Key: It’s easy to forget about staying hydrated in winter, but dehydration can sneak up on anyone—especially seniors. Make sure your loved one is drinking plenty of water, even if they don’t feel thirsty.

Enhancing Safety at Our Beloit Location

While all of our Great Lakes Senior Living communities prioritize winter safety, Beloit presents some unique challenges due to its geography and weather patterns. The Beloit area often experiences sharp temperature drops and frequent ice storms, which means we take extra precautions to protect our residents.

Our Beloit location features covered walkways between buildings, ensuring that residents don’t have to step out into the elements when moving between common areas. This not only reduces the risk of slips but also keeps everyone warm and comfortable.

In 2024, we’re introducing new weather-monitoring systems to give us up-to-the-minute information on storms and freezing conditions. This means we can respond even more quickly to keep our grounds safe.

Keeping Minds and Spirits Warm

Winter can feel long and isolating, but at Great Lakes Senior Living, we focus on creating warm, inviting atmospheres that keep spirits high. Whether it’s holiday celebrations, movie nights, or craft sessions, there’s always something happening to keep residents engaged and active.

For our memory care residents, we offer personalized activities that are tailored to their abilities and preferences, helping them stay active and connected during the colder months. And when the weather is just too cold to venture outside, we bring the outdoors in with nature-themed indoor activities, like wintertime birdwatching from the comfort of our community rooms.