Winters are tough in the northeast, especially around the Philadelphia and Bucks County areas. Freezing temperatures, snow, sleet, and worry all make our lives complicated. But when you have a senior citizen to care for, like your elderly mom, dad, or grandparent, things get even rougher. Whether they live with you or in another facility, here are some tips for helping older people recover from a snowstorm:

Car Maintenance

If you are related to a senior that drives, help them with car maintenance, especially during the winter, and save lives. Hazardous roads and driving conditions are dangerous for anyone, but the elderly are at increased risk for injury. Assist them in taking their car for a pre-winter check-up including oils, tires, battery, and wipers and be a big help.

Dress Warmly

Hyperthermia and frostbite from cold temperatures are particularly dangerous for seniors and a risk during the winter. The Centers for Disease Control reports that over 50% of hypothermia-related deaths occurred in people 65 and older.

Keep the house warm and have elderly persons wear layers, including warm socks and sweaters. When venturing outside, be sure they have a heavy coat, warm hat, gloves and a scarf as well. Beware of Ice
Once the snow has been shoveled and your loved one wants to head outdoors again, be careful of hidden ice on the driveway and walkways. It may be okay for you to get around, but seniors are especially prone to slip and falls, and will have much longer recovery times and more complications from these injuries. Have your loved one wear shoes with non-skid soles and traction. Check all areas for ice and ask if they would like a hand getting out to the car.

Watch for Depression

Many elderly persons that live alone lose connections and rarely see loved ones during the winter, as it is more difficult to get around. If you don’t live with them, make sure to check in with them regularly. They may be experienced feelings of isolation or loneliness that a simple phone call can combat. Speaking with the person’s neighbors or friends to encourage communication can also help.

Be Ready for Power Outages

Power outages can be scary for the elderly. Help them out by packing a power outage kit, including flashlights, warm blankets, non-perishable food items, and extra clothing. If you have notice a power outage may occur, make arrangements for someone to stay with the senior, such as a home health aide, or plan to bring them over your house.

Hire a Home Health Aide
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Home Health Aides, caregivers, and companions are blessings to people that need help, especially during the winter. These hard-working, compassionate workers will be there for your mom, dad, or grandparent during the colder months. Unique Care in Bensalem provides a range of Home Health Aides, from companions to Certified Nursing Assistants, to the elderly in the lower Bucks County and northeast Philly area. Call us today 215-639-1100 for a free consultation of your loved ones needs. ​

Suffering from a debilitating disease is no doubt incredibly difficult. The once automatic ability to walk, dress, write, speak, swallow, or even breathe can become hard work. But the disease also can be a burden for the family members that need to step into the role of caregiver for their parents.

Caregivers love their parents and only want the best for their long-term care. Unfortunately, that can mean sleepless nights, stress, and struggle that puts the caregiver’s health at risk as well. 

Children that are devoted to caring for a parent with a debilitating disease lose their childhood in the name of love. The American Psychological Association reports that approximately 1.3 million people between the ages of 8 and 18 serve as caregivers for sick or disabled relatives... 

These young caregivers will find themselves devoting much time and resources to provide care and of course it’s the right thing to do for the ones they love. 

But we need to ask important questions for the family members that are willing to devote their lives selflessly: Who is going to pay for the care? What happens if families can’t handle the job they’re asked to do? 

Our country needs to do more research to better understand the needs and provide services to young caregivers. 

Tax credits may be a good place to start  to alleviate some of the financial burden of a suffering parent. Other countries such as as Great Britain and Australia already have programs in place to compensate caregivers. It’s unfair and no one's fault when someone suffers an illness. We need to step up as a country and not let the responsibility fall on the individual family.