Winter Safety for Seniors
By Ewa Frydel, Owner
Winter keeps many indoors where it feels safe and warm, but it can also bring on challenging times for our seniors. As the weather gets colder and days get shorter, the elderly can become more isolated.
Isolation brings on a greater risk of falls and accidents.
As scary as that can be, caregivers can be prepared. We always know a Winter is coming, so planning ahead or even taking precautions just as the holidays roll around, is never too late.
Supporting your senior today and preparing for the colder weather allows you and your aging loved one to enjoy the Winter months all the while staying safe, cozy and healthy.
How can you prepare your senior family member for the cold of Winter?
Warm clothing is a great start!
Make sure your senior mom or dad have warm clothing that is of good quality. Many older adults don't like to purchase new clothing, so make sure their clothing doesn't have holes or worn out fleece or other inner linings. Also, keep thick blankets around in every room. Blankets that are large and cover the whole body can provide much warmth and comfort. Just make sure they don't become a tripping hazard by reminding your parents to keep blankets on top of the couch or bed.
Prepare for a power outage by having stocked food and medications.
Keep batteries and flashlights around where they can be easily found if the lights go out. Try to avoid candles unless you trust your senior parent with them. Use your own discretion when it comes to open flames. Also, have water bottles available all of the time. Prepare for an emergency now, even if you don't expect one.
Keep your senior active and circulating their blood.
Our bodies can quickly become cold when we're not as mobile and this is especially true for seniors. If your aging parent suffers from arthritis, then movement is crucial. The cold can increase pain and stiffness.
One of the best forms of physical activity for seniors is going outside and moving around a bit. Yes, even if it's cold! Have them dress appropriately and get some fresh air. Many Winter days still show the sunshine, which is important to help provide your aging loved one with Vitamin D, although supplements during this time are helpful, too.
Check out local walking groups and see if your senior parent can join. Sunshine, fresh air and socializing can beat the Winter blues.
Make sure you give your mom or dad transportation these Winter months.
Transportation is tricky this time of year, specifically if there is a blanket of snow on the roads. You can hire a homecare professional to transport them or make arrangements when you have time. If you're comfortable, you can call an Uber or look into local transportation services for the elderly.
Lastly, check in often.
The Winter months come with a few visitations for the holidays but that may not be enough. Make sure you visit your senior loved one often to ensure they are safe and healthy, mentally, physically and emotionally.
While Winter can be challenging, it's also a time of joy and rest.
Giving a little extra support and preparation can help make this a time of excitement for your senior. Prepare for power outages, cold fronts, transportation and visitations, too. You and your aging parents may find you come to thoroughly enjoy these cold Winter months and long dark days.
For more tips on preparing for your senior's safety during the Winter, contact us.
We're here to help!
Woodslake Home Care is a locally-owned, trusted home health care agency and offers quality, compassionate senior in-home care services including home care assistance, personal care, companion care, respite care, 24-hour live-in care, Alzheimer's & dementia care, Parkinson's care as well as homemaker services in Simcoe County. This includes Barrie, Shanty Bay, Orillia, Wasaga Beach, Innisfil, Collingwood, and Stayner. Contact us for additional coverage.
Legal Disclaimer
This blog provides general information and discussions about medicine, health, and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other healthcare workers.
Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which may have been mentioned or linked to in the article.
