Prepping for Winter With In-Home Care
Fall has officially begun, but winter quickly approaches as the season moves on. Many seniors are now choosing to age in place, and with it can bring winter challenges. However, with some tips and tricks to be aware of, you can easily limit the dangers of living at home and the dangers that winter brings. Your senior loved one should think about hiring in-home care to help around the house during the fall and winter because it will make living on their own much easier. Having someone like in-home care can relieve the stress the entire family feels. You may not have to worry about your loved one as much this winter with the right help set in place. Here are some things you should consider before winter comes.
The Temperatures Will Drop
This may seem like the most obvious thing to consider before winter, but people often forget just how cold a winter day can be. Your senior may not be dressing appropriately; even if they do, they may get cold more easily than you anticipate. If you consistently see your loved one dress in clothing meant for spring and summer, they may need help getting dressed. This is not always an activity they wish to rely on their adult children for, which is another reason in-home care can be a huge help. These professionals will help your senior check the weather app, dress appropriately, and ensure the senior has a way to warm up during the day, whether it be setting the thermostat or a portable heater in whatever room they’re in. It’s time to start prepping the house for the colder seasons’ temperature changes.
Think About Colds
Yes, the temperature drops, but this is also the season when germs spread and flu and cold rise. It’s time to ensure your loved one is washing their hands and disinfecting their homes regularly. Both of these things seem like easy things to do, but everyday things can be a lot harder for your elderly parents. In-home care can encourage your loved one to wash their hands and even help them pump the soap, but they can also help do small cleaning tasks that can keep germs to a minimum. There are things your loved one can do today to ensure they are less at risk for getting a cold or flu.
Think About Snow and Ice
Every senior should enjoy the outdoors, but when the ice and snow are too bad, your loved one needs to remain indoors where it is safe. They should always be looking at the snow before going out. If they need groceries, ask them to get them delivered through an app, if they have a doctor’s appointment, help them find a safe way to get there instead of letting them drive. If your loved one has to go outside, ensure they are dressed for the weather. This will help prevent them from getting too cold and ensure their bodies remain safe from the harsh winter air.
Salt Their Driveways
If you live in an area that gets a ton of snow, you can help your mom or dad by ensuring someone comes over and shovels a clear path from their door to the car, mailbox, and where they take out the trash. Once that is done, ensure there is salt to keep the ice from forming. This will help keep your loved one independent and safe during winter.
If you or someone you know needs help with in-home care in Ada, MI, contact Gauthier Family Home Care. We provide quality and affordable home care services in our community. Call us at (616) 258-2300 for more information.
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