Enjoy Winter Without the Worry: Stay Safe, Warm and Connected at an Atria Retirement Community

Summary

When temperatures drop, safety and comfort matter more than ever. See how Atria retirement homes in Canada make winter living worry-free with warm surroundings, good company and maintenance-free living.

Winter should be something to look forward to, not something to get through. As temperatures drop, the risks rise, from icy sidewalks to power outages and long days spent alone.

There’s a better way to spend the season.

Across Canada, Atria retirement communities offer cozy apartments, chef-prepared meals and friendly company – without the headaches of home maintenance or another winter spent isolated indoors.

Here are nine simple ways older adults can stay safe, warm and connected this season, and how a supportive community can make it easier than ever.

1. Prevent slips and falls
2. Dress warmly
3. Be aware of hypothermia
4. Stay hydrated
5. Prepare your home or let us handle it
6. Make a winter emergency plan
7. Use generators safely (or skip them entirely)
8. Exercise caution on the roads
9. Protect your health

1. Prevent slips and falls

Icy sidewalks and snowy driveways are two of the season’s biggest hazards. A few simple steps can make a big difference.

Stay steady by:

• Wearing rubber-soled, nonskid shoes
• Keeping entryways clear and dry
• Using handrails and taking short, careful steps
• Asking for help when getting in or out of vehicles
• Building balance and strength with regular exercise

Clear walkways, bright lighting and around-the-clock staff support help Atria residents move confidently, no matter the forecast.

2. Dress warmly

Layering helps your body retain heat and prevent chills.

Stay cozy with a:

• Thermal base layer
• Warm sweater or fleece
• Wind- and water-resistant coat
• Hat, gloves and scarf

Inside every Atria community, temperatures stay comfortable year-round with no drafts or cold spots – just warmth and welcome.

3. Be aware of hypothermia

Even mild cold can cause body temperature to drop below 35° C (95° F).

Warning signs include:

• Shivering or confusion
• Cold hands and feet
• Pale or puffy skin
• Slurred speech or unusual tiredness

If these symptoms appear, seek help right away. At Atria, neighbours and team members are always nearby to lend a hand.

4. Stay hydrated

It’s easy to forget to drink enough water in winter. As we age, our thirst response weakens, and dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue and confusion.

Try to:

• Keep a glass of water nearby
• Enjoy warm drinks like tea or cocoa
• Eat soups, fruits and veggies to add moisture naturally

Tea and coffee are available anytime at Atria, and every meal includes fresh soups and beverages – simple comforts that make a big difference.

5. Prepare your home or let us handle it

Winter prep, such as sealing windows, servicing the furnace and stocking supplies, can be a lot of work.

If you’re staying home, be sure to:

• Check your furnace before cold weather hits
• Set thermostats to at least 20° C (68° F)
• Keep flashlights, blankets and batteries handy

In a retirement community, heating, housekeeping and maintenance are taken care of, so you have more time for what matters most.

6. Make a winter emergency plan

Snowstorms and power outages happen, but planning ahead helps.

Be ready by:

• Keeping your phone charged and contacts updated
• Making sure someone you trust has a spare key
• Storing a few days’ worth of food and medication
• Having flashlights and blankets available

If you’re worried about handling those challenges on your own, consider a short-term winter stay at Atria Retirement Canada. Many older adults choose to spend the season in our communities for the peace of mind that comes with a reliable, maintenance-free environment.

Guests enjoy cozy suites, chef-prepared meals and daily opportunities to socialize – all while avoiding the risks of snow, ice and power outages. It’s also a great way to experience community life firsthand and see if senior living feels like home before making the move.

7. Use generators safely (or skip them entirely)

For homeowners, generators are useful during outages, but dangerous if used incorrectly.

Stay safe by:

• Never running a generator indoors or in a garage
• Keeping the generator well-ventilated outdoors
• Using a carbon monoxide detector

Typically, retirement communities like Atria offer backup systems to ensure residents don’t have to worry about equipment or power outages.

8. Exercise caution on the roads

If you must drive, plan ahead and take it slow.

Before heading out:

• Check weather reports and road conditions
• Keep an emergency kit in your car
• Avoid driving during heavy snow or ice

At Atria, communities provide scheduled transportation, making it easier to get to appointments and run errands – no icy commutes or scraping windshields required.

9. Protect your health

Winter can challenge the immune system, but small habits help.

Stay healthy by:

• Getting flu and COVID vaccines
• Washing hands often
• Eating balanced, nourishing meals
• Staying active and social

Atria offers chef-prepared meals, wellness programs and daily opportunities to connect, so it’s easy to feel your best – body and mind.

Atria Retirement Canada: where winter feels warm

Safety, comfort and connection come standard. Residents enjoy delicious dining, enriching programs and the warmth of a close-knit community that feels like family.

When the temperature drops, relax and enjoy everything you love about winter without the worry.

Find an Atria Retirement Canada community near you and schedule a visit today.