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Seniors struggle with cold and loneliness in freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall
Calls rose 50% after a snowstorm as seniors faced no heat, isolation, and risky icy conditions, increasing dangers like falls and hypothermia, helpline staff said.
- After a snowstorm hit southern Ontario, the Toronto Seniors Helpline received 128 calls on Monday and Tuesday, about 50 per cent above average as seniors struggled with no heat, loneliness and snow-covered sidewalks.
- After the snowstorm, landlords and maintenance workers couldn't restore heat, and many seniors lost heating after falling behind on hydro bills, while snow- and ice-covered sidewalks limited access for people with mobility issues.
- Medical experts note that physiological changes and medications mean some seniors may not respond well to cold, and `Somebody may not have the cognitive skills to dress appropriately for the weather and then they're intersecting with very dangerous conditions, and things like hypothermia or frostbite can develop in as little as 10 or 15 minutes`, Norman said.
- WoodGreen staff reported seniors with cognitive decline doing dangerous coping behaviours like leaving ovens on overnight and wandering without footwear, while cancelled routines and day programs increase agitation, caregivers said.
- Neighbors were urged to shovel, check groceries, and make social calls, while seniors in Toronto can reach helpline 416-217-2077 and others should call 211 for local services.
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Seniors struggle with cold and loneliness in freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall
Calls to Toronto Seniors Helpline are on the rise as older adults struggle with issues ranging from no heat in their homes to loneliness amid brutal cold and impassable snow-covered sidewalks.
·Canada
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Acadie Nouvelle+2 Reposted by 2 other sources
Seniors are among the most vulnerable to adverse winter weather conditions, says doctors.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources19
Leaning Left13Leaning Right0Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution81% Left
Bias Distribution
- 81% of the sources lean Left
81% Left
L 81%
C 19%
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