Neighbor News
Keeping Seniors Safe During Winter: 5 Tips
Protect your senior loved ones during the winter with these winter safety tips. Call At Home Personal Care for assistance: (703) 330-2323
Winter presents many health and safety challenges for seniors, but as friends and family members, we can minimize those hazards to help them stay safe, warm and healthy over the winter. The following 5 tips are a good starting place. Call At Home Personal Care for customized tips for your senior loved one: (703) 330-2323
1. Clear Slipping, Falling and Tripping Risks
Make sure walkways, driveways and paths to and from the home are always clear of snow and ice and check that boots, shoes, canes, walkers and other mobility aids are geared up with extra traction. Indoors, make sure electrical cords and furniture are arranged to prevent trips and falls too.
2. Be Ready for Winter Emergencies
Winter storms can cut electricity and cause other dangers. Make sure your loved one has an emergency kit containing at least a 72-hour supply water, food, flashlights, batteries, blankets, a radio and a week’s supply of any medications needed (rotate every 6 months). Make sure all caregivers know where the kit is kept. Also make sure they have a good, working cell phone with emergency numbers programmed into it.
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3. Help Them Stay Warm
Help them with any winter home prep to make sure they have sufficient insulation and that pipes are safe from freezing. Ensure they have blankets stashed around the home for easy access, as well as warm clothing, and that they keep the thermostat no lower than 68 degrees.
4. Check for Carbon Monoxide Hazards
Replace batteries in the carbon monoxide and smoke detectors and have the furnace, fireplace, gas heaters and appliances checked and serviced by professionals.
Find out what's happening in Manassasfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
5. Keep them Active and Social
Isolation during the winter can negatively impact both mental and physical health. Make sure your senior loved one can attend social gatherings, family parties, cultural and religious events, and engage in exercise programs recommended by their doctor on a regular basis.
If you need more assistance or advice on helping your senior loved one stay happy, safe and healthy during the winter, contact At Home Personal Care at (703) 330-2323 for help.
