As winter settles over Bergen County, NJ, it’s a season of beauty but also potential challenges. For seniors, the colder months require extra preparation to stay safe, warm, and connected. This checklist offers practical tips to help Bergen County seniors remain active and secure during the winter while enjoying all the season has to offer.
This article is part of the Next Chapter: Active & Engaged Over 60 in Bergen County series on mybergen.com. We’re providing the best information and resources for Bergen County’s large and growing active aging population to help them stay active, healthy, and engaged in our community.
Winter Safety Checklist for Bergen County Seniors
Slippery sidewalks and icy driveways are a reality during Bergen County winters, making fall prevention a top priority. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), falls are the leading cause of injury among older adults, with icy conditions increasing the risk significantly.
Practical Tips:
- Invest in Proper Footwear: Choose boots with non-slip soles and good ankle support. Local stores in Bergen County like Ramsey Outdoor on Route 17 South in Ramsey, often carry winter-specific footwear.
- Use Ice Melt Products: Keep a supply of pet-safe ice melt to clear your walkways. Braen Supply in North Jersey offers advice on environmentally friendly ice melting products.
- Install Handrails: Adding sturdy handrails to outdoor steps can reduce the risk of slipping. Too many seniors put this important safety measure off and often regret it.
- Walk with Caution: Take smaller steps and use walking aids like canes with ice-grip tips if necessary. Give yourself extra time and don’t rush!
Cold temperatures can pose serious health risks, especially for seniors. Hypothermia and frostbite can develop quickly, even indoors, if heating systems are inadequate. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends keeping indoor temperatures at a minimum of 68°F during the winter months.
Home Heating Tips:
- Check Your Heating System: Have your furnace or boiler inspected by a licensed professional before winter. The Bergen/Passaic County Division of Consumer Affairs can help verify contractors’ credentials. You may also find helpful contractors on the mybergen.com Bergen County Business Directory.
- Seal Drafts: Use weatherstripping or draft stoppers around windows and doors to keep cold air out. Local hardware stores in Paramus or Ridgewood can provide supplies.
- Layer Up Indoors: Wear warm, breathable clothing and keep extra blankets in living areas.
- Emergency Backup: Invest in a battery-powered space heater or generator to ensure warmth during power outages. When using a space heater, always place it on a flat, non-flammable surface and ensure it is at least three feet away from curtains, furniture, or bedding. Avoid plugging space heaters into extension cords to reduce the risk of fire. If using a generator, keep it outside in a well-ventilated area to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, and never use it indoors or in enclosed spaces like garages. Ensure any generator is used outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. For space heaters, choose models with automatic shut-off features and avoid placing them near flammable materials like curtains or bedding.
For those facing financial challenges, New Jersey’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can provide assistance with heating bills. The Bergen County Board of Social Services website may offer more options or information.
Read more about free Bergen County home repair service for seniors and those with disabilities.
The winter months can lead to feelings of isolation, especially when it’s harder to travel or gather outdoors. Maintaining social connections is vital for mental and emotional well-being. Research published in the journal Aging & Mental Health highlights the positive impact of regular social interactions on seniors’ overall health.
Ways for Seniors to Stay Social in Bergen County:
- Community Centers: Bergen County Senior Services offers activities and programs, including virtual and in-person events like fitness classes, book clubs, and hobby groups.
- Faith-Based Groups: Many local churches, synagogues and other places of worship host senior social events, which can include everything from potlucks to volunteer opportunities.
- Pickleball and More: Winter clinics at Montclair Pickleball in Fair Lawn offer a fun way to stay active and meet new people.
- Tech Connections: If you’re comfortable with technology, platforms like Zoom and Facebook can help you stay in touch with family and friends. Local libraries, such as the Ridgewood Public Library, often provide free tech workshops for seniors.
- Bergen County Events Calendar: Mybergen.com is home to Bergen County’s most comprehensive calendar of things to do and places to go in Bergen County all year long.
Staying active during winter is key to maintaining strength and flexibility, which also helps with fall prevention. The Mayo Clinic notes that even moderate exercise can improve circulation, boost mood, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Local Opportunities:
- Indoor Walking: Bergen County’s famous shopping malls provide indoor walking options that are safe, warm and accessible!
- Yoga and Tai Chi Classes: Offered through local senior centers, these low-impact exercises can improve balance and joint health.
Bergen County Winter Adventures: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, consider a brisk walk at Van Saun Park or Saddle River County Park on days when paths are clear. Just bundle up and be cautious of icy patches.
Winter storms can lead to power outages, blocked roads, and other disruptions. Being prepared ensures you’ll stay safe no matter the weather. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) emphasizes having a well-stocked emergency kit.
Winter Emergency Kit Essentials:
- Flashlights and extra batteries
- Non-perishable food and bottled water
- Extra medications and a copy of your prescriptions
- Battery-powered radio or weather app
- Contact numbers for local emergency services, such as the Bergen County Office of Emergency Management
New Jersey also provides a Special Needs Registry for Disasters to ensure that seniors and those with disabilities receive necessary assistance during emergencies.
Proper nutrition is essential during winter to keep your immune system strong. Cold weather may make trips to the grocery store challenging, so plan ahead.
Nutrition Tips:
- Stock Up on Essentials: Keep a supply of canned goods, whole grains, and frozen vegetables.
- Local Grocery Delivery: Services like ShopRite from Home and Instacart can deliver fresh produce and pantry staples directly to your door.
- Meal Prep Services: Consider senior-focused meal prep options available in Bergen County, like Meals on Wheels or personal chef services.
No Need to Hibernate
Winter doesn’t have to be a season of worry. By taking proactive steps, seniors in Bergen County can stay safe, warm, and engaged throughout the colder months. Whether it’s attending a community event, enjoying winter activities, or simply staying connected with loved ones, there are countless ways to thrive this season.
Stay tuned for more articles in our Next Chapter: Active & Engaged Over 60 in Bergen County series on mybergen.com.
Aging in Place in Bergen County: Services, Resources, and Tips for Seniors
