As the winter season approaches, it’s important to take extra care of our senior loved ones to ensure that they are comfortable and safe. Whether they are living at home or in an assisted living facility, there are steps that we can take to protect them from the cold and prevent common winter health issues.
Here are a few tips for ensuring that your senior loved one is well taken care of during the colder months:
Bundle Up
As the temperatures drop, it’s important to be aware of the risks of frostbite and hypothermia, especially for seniors who may be more susceptible to these conditions. Frostbite occurs when the skin and other tissues freeze, while hypothermia is a condition in which the body’s temperature falls below normal.
Seniors may be more at risk of developing hypothermia due to their bodies’ reduced ability to tolerate low temperatures for extended periods of time.
To protect your elderly loved ones, make sure they stay indoors and have everything they need to stay warm and comfortable at night. Make sure to check in with your loved one regularly to ensure that their room is warm enough for them and bring them plenty of clothes to layer on during the winter months.
If your loved one is in an assisted living facility and you notice that the temperature is too low, bring it to the attention of the staff so that they can address the issue.
Encourage Regular Exercise
While it may be tempting to curl up on the couch and stay inside during the winter, it’s important for seniors to continue to stay active and get some low-impact exercise. Encourage your loved one to take walks or participate in group exercise classes. Exercise can help to improve circulation, boost mood, and increase energy levels.
Help To Prevent Falls
Slippery sidewalks and icy driveways can be a hazard for seniors, so it’s important to take precautions to prevent falls. Encourage your loved one to wear shoes with good traction and to use a walker or cane if they have one. Be sure to clear the walkways of any snow or ice so that your loved one can walk safely.
Stay Hydrated
It’s easy for seniors to become dehydrated during winter, as the dry air can lead to increased thirst. Encourage your loved one to drink plenty of water and other hydrating fluids such as broth or herbal tea. If your loved one has trouble remembering to drink enough fluids, you can also consider investing in a water bottle with marked increments to help them keep track of their intake.
Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations
It’s important for everyone to stay current on their vaccinations, especially during the winter when cold and flu season is in full swing. This applies to both the old and young members of your family. All those capable of getting vaccinated should do so to keep everyone safe and healthy. Encourage your loved one to get a flu shot and other necessary vaccinations to help protect them from illness.
Keep An Eye on Nutrition
It can be easy for seniors to skip meals or make less-than-healthy choices, especially when they are living on their own. Encourage your loved one to eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. If your loved one is having trouble preparing meals for themselves, consider hiring a professional caregiver to provide meal preparation and assistance with other daily tasks.
Check For Signs of Depression
Winter can be prime time for senior depression, as the days get shorter and colder. Be sure to check in with your elderly loved one regularly to make sure they are feeling okay and that their emotional state is stable. If you notice any signs of depression, contact a mental health provider for help.
Check-In Regularly
It’s important to stay in touch with your loved one and check in on them regularly, especially when they may be more isolated due to the weather. Set up regular phone or video calls, or consider hiring a professional caregiver to visit your loved one regularly to provide additional support and companionship.
Final Thoughts
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your senior loved one is comfortable and safe during the winter season. Remember to stay in touch and check in regularly, and don’t hesitate to ask for additional support if you feel that your loved one needs it.