Taking care of an elderly loved one has many challenges. One must think of all aspects affected when advancing in age. It even becomes more challenging during certain circumstances. For instance, winter months pose more considerations for senior family members. What are the things that one must look into to ensure the comfort of an elderly during the colder season?
Check on Areas that Cause Risks
Older people are more prone to slips and falls. An area that is risky for them during winter is the yard. Getting the service of an excellent snow removal company will give you peace of mind. The build-up of snow, if left unattended, will present more chances for them to figure out in an accident.
Make sure that they leave their shoes outside. Bringing them in will cause pools of water or traces of wet areas. Again, these can lead them to slip. Ensure that the floors inside the home are always dry and warm.
Have More Time to Connect
Whether your elderly loved one is living with you or not, show some extra warmth during winter. Even younger people can experience feeling down during the cold months. Winter blues can be more challenging for a senior; they have limited social connections outside of their families.
Thus, family members need to spend more time with them. They can also schedule more phone calls or video calls. You may also arrange some social meetings for them with their peers or neighbors. They should not feel isolated or neglected.
Inspect Their Cars for Some Maintenance or Repair
Some elderly still can drive themselves around. But they may forget to check on their cars as a precautionary measure. Take the initiative to have their vehicles checked. Make sure that it is in prime condition, especially for harsh weather conditions.
The tires should be ready for the slippery roads. Also, ensure that the engines are in good working condition. You would not want your elderly loved one to get stranded somewhere in the cold. You may not be comfortable with them driving alone during the winter. Arrange for someone to go with them and drive for them.
Load Them Up on Nutrients
Colder weather may give seniors a hard time to prepare meals or to have trips to the groceries. Help them out by making sure that they have enough supplies. You can also volunteer for cooking for them. Bringing them big batches of precooked meals you have prepared is also a good idea. They can heat portions of it for their nourishment.
It is imperative to fortify their bodies with the proper nutrients. Winter can bring about many diseases such as the flu, colds, or coughs. Illnesses such as these may trigger other health conditions that they have.
Look at Their Living Conditions
Are your elderly loved ones comfortable enough? Check if the temperature inside their homes is well-regulated. Also, make sure that they have enough winter clothes to keep them warm. Check on the availability of mittens, scarves, sweaters, and blankets. Hypothermia is a great risk for older people.
Be watchful and prepared for power outages instances. Have a backup plan if such things happen. Keep communication lines open. You also need to make sure that they have the proper emergency equipment for times like these.
Winter months can be troublesome for everybody. But remember to give extra care and attention to your elderly loved ones. They would appreciate being taken care of, especially during this season.
