Here in Missouri we've already seen bitterly cold days, sleet, snow, and mornings where the ground is frozen and cars are covered with frost. In true Missouri weather fashion, we've also seen temperatures in the 60s in December. The saying – If you don't like the weather, give it 30 minutes – truly does feel like it applies here. While the weather may feel unpredictable, there are steps you can take to be prepared for whatever winter weather may come our way. Being prepared for winter weather is especially important for older adults, adults with disabilities, caregivers, and adults with chronic health conditions. One example of a special need for being prepared for winter weather when living with a chronic health condition, is managing medications and communicating with a health care provider regarding any specific medical needs.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has compiled a number of resources for staying personally prepared. The Administration on Aging (AoA) also has a quick Healthy Living Tips sheet for winter weather. Ready.gov also has great resources for being prepared ahead of time for a winter storm, as well as what steps can be taken during and after a storm. No matter what resources you seek out in order to get prepared, please be sure to do so. Consider being prepared a Step to Better Health!