With winter just around the corner, now is a good time to start preparing for the (hopefully) dropping temperatures in Central Texas. 

Everyone, especially senior citizens, must take proactive steps to stay safe, warm, and healthy this cold season. While winters in Central Texas are typically mild compared to other regions, colder weather can still pose various challenges for seniors. Preparation is key, whether it’s managing fluctuating temperatures or addressing potential risks.

It may still be November and nearly 80° every day, but there’s some cold weather coming just around the corner…maybe. Either way, it’s good to be prepared! Today, we’ve compiled a list of ways you can prepare your home and yourself for colder weather. 

Prepare Your Home:

While Central Texas doesn’t often experience freezing temperatures for extended periods, it can still cause issues for your home, whether that be loss of electricity or burst pipes. There are various measures you can take to ensure your home is ready for winter. 

1. Insulate Your Home

Cold drafts can make it hard to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Check windows and doors for any gaps that may need sealing to prevent drafts. Ensuring adequate Insulation for windows and doorways can help keep heat inside. You can add extra curtains or towels to windows to keep it warmer inside. Towels can also be used along the bottom of doors to keep cold air out. Adding weatherstripping or caulking around windows can also be an effective way to conserve energy and reduce heating costs if you have the time and resources.

2. Test Your Heater

Before the cold weather hits, test your home’s heating system. You can call your Heating & Cooling company and ask them to come out to check your system to ensure everything will work properly when needed. In central Texas, we’re used to needing the AC practically all year round, but indoor heating can be just as important and needed during colder weather. 

Whether you rely on a furnace, space heater, or fireplace, make sure they’re in good working order. Also, remember: if you do use space heaters, be sure to follow all safety measures — don’t plug them into extension outlets, never leave them unattended, and keep them in a safe space from anything flammable.

3. Prevent Frozen Pipes

While freezing temperatures aren’t as frequent in Central Texas, it’s still a good idea to take precautions to prevent your pipes from freezing. Some areas of central Texas are prone to freezes, especially areas closer to lakes and rivers. By Insulating exposed pipes (in areas like outdoor faucets, garages, crawlspaces, and basements.) If you anticipate a hard freeze, let faucets drip slightly in the kitchen and bathroom to keep water moving and avoid freezing.

4. Clear Walkways and Driveways

Falls are a significant risk for seniors, and icy patches or slippery sidewalks can be dangerous. Although snow and ice are less likely in Central Texas, a sudden freeze could create slick conditions. If ice or frost is predicted, use sand or salt to treat areas that could become slippery and proceed with caution, or get assistance if needed.

Prepare Yourself:

Preparing yourself is just as important as preparing your surroundings. Adding extra layers of clothes and using items to help keep you warm, such as heated blankets or electric throw blankets to help you stay warm, are excellent ways to keep you toasty in your house.

1. Dress in Layers

During autumn and winter in Texas, temperatures can be all over the place. In the morning, it’s in the 40s, and by the afternoon, it’s well into the 80s. This can make it hard to plan for weather-appropriate attire, so dressing in layers will be your best friend! Another tip: keep an extra jacket on hand in case you need it in your car or your bag.

• Warm Base Layers

Once again, layers are key! Start with a moisture-wicking base layer made of materials like wool or synthetic fabrics that trap heat while also allowing sweat to evaporate. This will help regulate your body temperature and keep you warm and dry.

• Add Insulating Layers

On top of your base layer, wear insulating layers such as a sweater. This layer traps body heat and helps keep you comfortable.

• Warm Outerwear

If you’re heading outside, add a heavy coat, hat, gloves, and a scarf, or whatever is appropriate, depending on the temperature. Cold air can be especially harsh on extremities like hands, feet, and ears, so keeping these areas covered is especially important.  

Having extra blankets and warm clothing on hand can also provide peace of mind if there happens to be a power outage or in the case that your central heating isn’t enough to keep you warm.

Other Tips:

1. Stay Active

Staying active during the colder months can prove to be difficult, especially in areas like Central Texas, where people tend to be more avid outdoor enthusiasts. The weather may not permit outdoor walks or hikes, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still be active. Maintaining regular exercise can help keep your circulation flowing and prevent stiffness in your joints and muscles. There are tons of great at-home workout resources and videos you can watch that do light cardio, stretching, or gentle yoga. 

(Check out our previous blog post on Exercise for Seniors to learn more!)

Gentle exercise can still increase warmth by promoting blood flow. 

2. Monitor Weather Conditions

Cold weather in Central Texas can sometimes be unpredictable, with sudden drops in temperature or even surprise frost. Stay informed by checking the weather regularly.

3. Stay On Top of Your Health

Colder temperatures can exacerbate certain health conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, and respiratory issues. Seniors with these conditions should take extra care during colder weather. Make sure to stay on top of doctor appointments and to ensure you have all your needed medications on hand.

4. Ask for Assistance if Needed

It’s okay to ask for assistance during the colder months. If shoveling the driveway, adding wood logs to your fireplace, or carrying groceries becomes too challenging, reach out to family members, friends, or neighbors for help. Many local communities and senior services offer assistance with tasks like winterizing your home or providing transportation during inclement weather.

While Central Texas winters may not be as harsh, they still come with their own set of things that we need to prepare for. 

By preparing yourself and your home for this season, you can enjoy a safe and cozy winter season. If you need further advice or support, don’t hesitate to reach out to local senior care services to help with your winter preparations.

From your friends at Senior Industry Services, we wish you a happy, warm, and safe Holiday Season! 

Written for Senior Industry Services by Lauren Hope Bartling