Winter Care for Seniors
The hazards of winter are not quite over for this season. Even as Spring taunts us, we know that the winter’s chill is still not completely over yet. At Adult Care Advisors, we know that the winter months present several unique challenges and hazards for seniors. Below are some useful strategies to help you with winter care for seniors.
Winter Weather – Tips for Senior Care
The weather is the most obvious hazard in the winter for everyone, but for seniors, the weather can expose vulnerabilities. Slipping on the ice is a primary risk, so seniors should always wear shoes with good traction in the winter. Driving should only be attempted with snow tires and an appropriate winter survival kit close by. Older adults should be careful with being out in the cold because more than half of all hypothermia deaths are among seniors. Dress warmly, keep your home comfortably warm, and don’t stay outside too long.
Seniors and Isolation – Another Threat of Winter
All of the threats in the previous section can lead to social isolation for seniors during the winter. If a senior you know has been spending a lot of alone time due to inclement weather, try to spend extra time with them, arrange transportation to social events, or arrange visits with friends.
Some seniors may experience a decrease in ‘happy energy’ during the winter due to decreased daylight. Commonly known as ‘seasonal affective disorder’ or ‘SAD’, it can be combatted by getting as much natural light as possible during daylight hours and using full-spectrum lights to alleviate the winter blues.
Flu Season Makes Winter Care for Seniors Challenging
Seniors are especially susceptible to developing the flu because of their weakened immune systems. The flu causes a significant number of hospitalizations and fatalities among seniors each year. It can also lead to secondary infections such as pneumonia.
Make sure the seniors you care about get a flu vaccine every year. They should also take care to wash their hands carefully after interacting with others and when they come home. This will help prevent them from bringing the virus home where it can infect them at a later time.
If you need help keeping a senior safe and healthy this winter, don’t hesitate to call Adult Care Advisors. We will connect you with our experienced and knowledgeable advisors so you can keep the seniors you care about safe and healthy.
Get in touch with our team of adult care consultants today who will advise you on winter hazards and how to help your senior parent stay safe and healthy.