Winter Care For The Elderly

Winter weather has always been a potentially dangerous time of the year for senior citizens. Their bodies have become weaker than in earlier years, and their immune systems do not fight off infections and other damaging disorders. It is vital for older adults to take extra precautions during the winter season. Older adults are very vulnerable to colds, flu, and hypothermia. Generally, cold weather and senior citizens are a dangerous combination. It is imperative for the older adult to have extreme care in order to survive the all of the elements that winter can bring. Home Care Lakewood is here to help you;

Things to Know

Winter care for the elderly should definitely include keeping warm to prevent hypothermia. Older adults have less efficient circulation, less body fat, and a slower metabolism. This makes them very susceptible to cold related disorders. The temperature inside the home should never be set below 65 degrees. If your senior loved one is aging in place, make sure to check that they always have enough money to pay their heating bill. Winter care for the elderly should also consist of staying hydrated. It is normal for older adults to eat and drink less as they age, so you must ensure that they drink liquids to avoid dehydration.

How to Prepare

You should prepare for the winter elements by being sure that provisions are made to have ice and snow shoveled from the walkway and sidewalk outside. The steps should also be cleared of any bad weather precipitation to prevent any falling hazards. If affordable, have the outside walk area salted to help the older adult move around without fear of falling. There are organizations in some areas that will provide these services for the elderly. You should also have a disaster kit in place for your senior loved one in the event that the power goes off during a fierce winter storm. The kit should include water for several days, non perishable food items, can opener, flashlight, extra batteries, a non electric radio, necessary medications, and a first aid kit and warm clothing and blankets.

It is vital during the winter season to dress your senior loved one appropriately and warm. Many older adults use blankets to cover themselves during the day because they are normally colder than anyone else. Have warm cozy socks for them while sitting watching television. Electric blankets are great for bedtime, but use them with all precautions. Do not use if there is a bed wetting issue.

Final Words

Lakewood Home Care understands that many older adults require extra warmth, so electric space heaters are often used. These heaters must be used with extreme caution. Never place them too close to the older adult, and check that the area for the heater is not around any flammable items. Do not place it close to the walls or furniture. If it is needed in the bedroom, make sure that it is not touching anything, or be in contact with any clothing. Caring for your senior loved one during winter weather means being more observant of them to ensure that they are safe.