Cold Weather Preparation in Maryland

Colder weather is on the way, and now is a good time for Maryland families and care professionals to start preparing. As temperatures drop, older adults, people with developmental disabilities, people with limited mobility and anyone who may have difficulty accessing reliable heating, transportation or essential supplies may need additional planning and support. Preparing before the coldest days arrive can make everyday routines easier and help reduce unnecessary risks.

Here are practical ways to get ready.

1. Prepare the Home for Colder Temperatures

Before temperatures fall significantly, check that heating systems are working properly and that the home can be kept comfortably warm. Older adults and people who need assistance may not always recognize that their environment has become too cold. Make sure warm clothing, blankets and appropriate food are available and easy to access.

Never use an oven or stovetop to heat the home. If using a generator during a power outage, it must be used outdoors and away from doors, windows and vents. Working carbon monoxide detectors are also important. Preparing these things now can prevent unnecessary stress when colder weather arrives.

2. Get Warm Clothing Ready

Cold weather preparation is not only about the home. The right clothing can make a significant difference when going outside. Prepare several layers of warm clothing and make sure coats, gloves, hats, scarves and suitable footwear are available before they are needed. Protect the hands, feet, ears, face and head when temperatures are low. Keep clothing dry because wet clothing can increase heat loss. For someone with a developmental disability or cognitive difficulty, preparing clothing in advance can make the routine simpler. A caregiver or support person can help make sure the person is appropriately dressed before leaving home.

3. Prepare for Icy Conditions

Although winter may not have arrived yet, it is worth thinking ahead about snow, ice and freezing rain. Walkways, steps and entrances should be easy to access and properly lit. Families can also make sure walking aids, mobility equipment and other necessary items are ready for changing conditions.

For someone who has difficulty walking or uses a wheelchair, walker or cane, consider how colder and potentially icy conditions could affect their ability to move around safely. Planning alternative activities or transportation options can also help reduce unnecessary travel when conditions become difficult.

4. Have Essential Supplies Ready

Do not wait for a major weather event before checking what is available at home. Make sure essential supplies can be accessed easily, including:

• Food and water
• Regular medications
• Warm clothing and blankets
• Flashlights and batteries
• Important phone numbers
• Emergency contact information
• Necessary personal or medical supplies

For someone who receives regular support, family members, caregivers and other members of the support network should understand the plan if transportation, electricity or communication services are interrupted.

5. Check on People Who May Need Extra Support

One of the simplest ways to prepare for colder weather is to check in with someone who may need additional help. This could be an older relative, neighbor, friend or person with a disability, particularly if they live alone or have limited mobility. A simple phone call or visit can help identify problems before they become emergencies.

Ask:

• Is your home warm enough?
• Do you have enough food and medication?
• Do you have the supplies you need?
• Will you be able to get around safely if temperatures drop?
• Do you need help preparing for colder days?

Checking in is especially important when a person may have difficulty communicating a need or asking for help.

6. Know the Signs of Cold-Related Problems

It is also useful to know what to watch for when temperatures become very low.

Signs of hypothermia can include shivering, extreme tiredness, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech and drowsiness. Frostbite may cause numbness and skin that becomes unusually firm, waxy or pale.

If you suspect hypothermia or frostbite, seek medical attention promptly. Severe cold-related illness can become a medical emergency.

7. Make a Cold Weather Plan Now

Good preparation starts before the weather becomes difficult. For families supporting older adults or people with developmental disabilities, write down important phone numbers, medication information, emergency contacts, transportation options and the person's individual support needs.

It can also help to identify who will check in on the person, who can assist with essential supplies and what to do if normal routines are disrupted. A little preparation can reduce stress and help people remain safer, connected and as independent as possible.

At Global Hands Inc., we understand that everyday support can become even more important when colder weather affects routines, mobility and community participation. Whether you are supporting an older adult, someone with a developmental disability or a family member who needs additional assistance, preparing early can help protect safety, dignity and independence.

Get ready. Stay prepared. Check in.

#ColdWeatherSafety #WinterPreparation #OlderAdults #DevelopmentalDisabilities #DisabilitySupport #Maryland #GlobalHandsInc