Yes, we know. The official start of the winter season doesn’t get underway for about another six weeks. But, here in Calgary, Mother Nature doesn’t tend to wait until December 21st. That makes preparing for the winter an annual event that takes place as early as September. If you live with an elderly loved one, you’re especially well aware of this.
It’s of vital importance that you prepare to safeguard the seniors in your life all throughout the winter season. So what are the best ways to do just that?
Prepare an emergency kit for the car.
No matter where you travel with your senior in your car, an emergency kit is necessary. Yes, that includes short trips to the grocery store around the block. You never know when the weather could get particularly nasty or when the car battery may decide to conk out on you. An emergency kit is particularly important for older adults who drive themselves and may go out on excursions alone.
“Experiencing an emergency on the road is always a hassle,” Bayshore HealthCare reminds us, “In the winter, it could be fatal. With temperatures consistently below -10°C, preparation and planning are essential.”
Eliminate fireplace use.
We know. Fireplaces and the winter time go hand in hand. There’s even that famous holiday tune “Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire” that gets just about everyone in a festive mood. However, it’s important to know just how dangerous fireplace use can be. The burning of the wood can emit deadly carbon monoxide in your home. Senior or not, the smoke is hazardous to your respiratory system.
“During the winter months, it is common to use the fireplace or other heating sources, such as natural gas, kerosene, and other fuels,” affirms HealthInAging.org, “Unless fireplaces, wood and gas stoves and gas appliances are properly vented, cleaned, and used, they can leak dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide—a deadly gas that you cannot see or smell. These and other appliances, such as space heaters, can also be fire hazards.”
Spend time with your elderly loved one this holiday season.
This isn’t exactly a safety tip – but it’s an important point to make, nonetheless. Arguably, for seniors, there’s no better gift than your time. Think about it. The older adults in your life aren’t bound to want the latest fashions or necessarily need the latest gadgets. For the most part, they cherish – more than anything – quality time with the family members they love.
“The holidays can be a great opportunity to create more memories and engage in old and new traditions with family and friends,” says Bayshore HealthCare, “For aging seniors, nothing is more special than the time spent with their children and grandchildren. The best ways to spend time together this winter and holiday season include some of life’s simple pleasures.”
At Advantage Home Health Solutions, we’d love to join you in helping safeguard your elderly loved ones all winter long. For information about our mobility solutions, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 403-460-5438. You may also email us by filling out the form on our Contact page!
