During winter, the weather turns cold and you will have to deal with snow, rain, and sleet. The winter months can be a challenge especially for older adults and their caregivers. There are many contributing factors for death among the elderly during winter, including pneumonia, flu and falls that result in hospitalization. You need to prepare yourself and the older adult for the winter in order to stay as safe and secure as possible. Read on to learn about the must-follow winter safety tips for the elderly!
Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Weather
If you use your vehicle to drive older adults around during winter, you should have it serviced before winter starts. Check that the tires, wipers, headlights, and brakes are in good working condition. Keep a road trouble kit in your vehicle. Stock it with important items such as water, snacks, blankets, flashlights, a mobile phone battery charger, flares, and extra batteries in case your vehicle gets stuck.
Winterize Their Home
If your parents or aging relatives and friend live on their own, look for ways to prepare their home for the cold winter season. Older adults are less able to withstand cold temperatures, so they will need to have their heating system serviced and ensure that the system is in good and working condition before the cold period starts. Check that the gutters are free of debris and the roof is secure. Remove any dead trees around the home to prevent them from falling down during storms. Ensure that the sidewalks, driveways, and walkways are kept in good condition.
Have an Emergency Plan
Create an emergency plan in case your aging family members or friends have to be moved to another place during extreme weather conditions. If you are unable to be the caregiver during that time, plan for another trusted family member or friend to take over.
Aston Gardens At Pelican Pointe
At Aston Gardens At Pelican Pointe, we have created a lovely senior living community just for you. Located in Venice, you will have convenient access to the best entertainment and medical facilities. Our residents enjoy a wide variety of fun and exciting activities to keep them active and engaged. We offer you the best amenities and you will be able to live your dream lifestyle. Our dedicated team of staff is here to take care of you.
After reading about the winter safety tips for older adults, you might feel safer living in a senior living community during the winter season where you and your loved ones will not have to worry about maintaining the heating system in the home or winterizing your cars, as transportation will be provided by our experienced drivers for our residents when the needs arise. Do consider staying with us! Feel free to contact us today for more information.
