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
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.
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
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.