Cold temperature has a range of negative effects on senior citizens. According to the CDC, winter increases the risk of heart disease, falls, liver damage, etc., among elderly people. Moreover, older adults are more likely to have various medical conditions such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and hypothyroidism, all of which make them more susceptible to cold weather.
For these reasons, elder care strategies for the winter is important. At first, this may seem very difficult, but that’s why we at Porter Home Health Services are here to help. Here are 5 bits of non medical home care you can put in place as winter approaches. We also talk about how our senior care program can make things much easier.
Stay Warm
It is very important for seniors to actively try and stay warm in the winter because they are more sensitive to the weather. Home care should include wearing thick, warm clothing and setting the thermostat to between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit at all times.
If an elderly relative goes outdoors in the winter, it’s appropriate that they are dressed for the cold and carry a blanket, some warm food, and water along with them because the food can help to increase core body temperature, which will combat the risk of winter dehydration.
For someone already juggling several responsibilities, keeping an eye on your loved one’s safety can pose a challenge. Luckily, if you live in Dallas, we have care attendants that offer emotional companionship and a caring hand both through home care and care when going to or at social events. If you contact us, you’ll have a peace of mind knowing your loved one stays safe.
Be Mindful of Falls
Winter makes everything dark, wet, and slippery, which puts your elderly relatives at increased risk of falls, so you need to help them avoid this. You need to ensure all surfaces are dry and have good lighting on stairs and walkways.
It’s also important to clear the walkways every day. Fortunately, our care attendants in Hunt County, Texas, can help with fall prevention by running essential errands and doing light housekeeping work.
Look Out for Danger Signs
It’s best to be familiar with the signs of hypothermia just in case your loved one develops them. According to the CDC, you should look out for things like feet and hands that are excessively cold to touch, slow speech, sleepiness, pale skin, shallow breathing, etc.
However, you might not always be available to provide this kind of senior care. However, we offer in-home care in Tarrant, Texas, anytime you need a break to do something else.
Speak to Your Doctor
Many elderly loved ones are on medications that place them more at risk of suffering health complications from the frigid cold. Health conditions may also affect the risk of hypothermia in different ways. Hence, you should help your loved one organize a visit with their doctor to create a plan tailored to their needs.
As part of our senior care services, we can accompany your loved ones on these trips and carry out customized care plans that best meet their needs.
Check-ins
Even if you can’t be physically present, checking in with calls at agreed times to make sure your loved one is safe can go a long way to keep your favorite senior citizen physically healthy and emotionally cared for.
Meanwhile, we at Porter Home Health Services can be physically by their side. Contact us now to get started.
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