Why are Toronto seniors calling the helpline more often?

Toronto seniors are calling the helpline more often due to issues like no heat in their homes, isolation exacerbated by extreme cold, and difficulty accessing basic needs like groceries because of snow-covered sidewalks.

What health risks do seniors face during extreme cold weather?

Seniors face increased risks of hypothermia, frostbite, and serious injuries from falls on icy surfaces. Chronic conditions and certain medications can make them more vulnerable to the cold.

How can the community help seniors during harsh winter weather?

Community members can help by checking on seniors, assisting with shoveling driveways and stairs, ensuring they have groceries, and making social calls to combat isolation.

Home / Health / Seniors Battle Cold, Isolation: Helpline Overwhelmed

Seniors Battle Cold, Isolation: Helpline Overwhelmed

1 Feb

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Summary

Toronto Seniors Helpline sees 50% call increase amid brutal winter weather.
Seniors face risks from cold, lack of heat, and dangerous icy sidewalks.
Experts warn of increased falls, hypothermia, and cognitive decline risks.

Toronto's seniors are facing significant challenges as severe winter weather intensifies, leading to a substantial increase in calls to the Seniors Helpline. The extreme cold, coupled with impassable snow-covered sidewalks, has exacerbated issues ranging from lack of heating in homes to profound social isolation. Rochelle McAlister of WoodGreen Community Services reported a 50% rise in calls, with many seniors seeking companionship while others face life-threatening situations.

Some older adults are experiencing heating loss due to poverty and overdue utility bills, while others contend with landlords' failure to make timely repairs. The treacherous outdoor conditions prevent seniors from accessing essential services like grocery shopping and medical appointments, disproportionately affecting those with mobility issues.

Geriatric specialists emphasize that physiological changes make seniors more susceptible to cold. Chronic conditions and certain medications can further impair their ability to regulate body temperature. The risk of serious injury from falls on icy surfaces remains elevated for up to seven days following major snow events, with fractures and head injuries being common.