The weather outside is chilly and quite frightful and dangerous for seniors. They’re at risk for falls and contracting pneumonia and flu because of compromised immunity. However, most of our elderly loved ones wish to live their lives independently, which can make it difficult for us to keep them safe.
If you’re a caregiver to your parents or grandparents, here are some safety tips for seniors to help keep your loved ones safe and healthy during the winter season:
Dress For The Weather
If your senior loved one is going out in the cold weather, ask them to layer up.The air between each piece of clothing will act as a barrier to the cold weather and keep them warm. Also, don’t forget the cap and a scarf.
You can also get them to wear waterproof shoes and a jacket so their socks and clothes don’t get soaked in the snow. If they do, you should quickly get your loved ones dried and changed immediately, lest they fall sick.
Prevent Snow-Related Fall Injuries
It can be very easy for seniors to fall on stairs and slippery roads during the winter. The ice can create a slipper layer on the surface that can cause you to slip. So, if your family members like your grandparents or parents often shovel the snow, try to take care of those duties. Shoveling snow in cold conditions can put a strain on their heart.
And if your loved one has osteoporosis, any fall injury can cause severe bruising, hairline fractures, and even complete fractures in the worst cases. So, try to do the house maintenance and snow removal activities yourself or appoint another caregiver to take care of it.
Wear A Mask When You Go Out
Flu-like symptoms are common in the colder season. If a senior loved one, already has a weak immune system, remind themto wear a mask in public to avoid contaminants in the air. Also, remind them to regularly wash their hands and disinfect common surfaces. You can keep a sanitizer on your person or your bag to disinfect both your and your loved one’s hands when needed. You can also put one in their bag to be safe if you forget to carry yours.
Next Level Senior Advisors Can Help You Find Independent Senior Living Communities
If you can’t be with your loved ones all the time, ensure your loved ones and their caregivers are following the safety tips for seniors mentioned above. Also, if you wish to find your loved ones an independent living community where they can live as they wish but still have access to assistance when needed, we can help you.
Next Level Senior Advisors have helped hundreds of seniors find independent living communities with access to fun amenities, entertainment, and dining services. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services and independent living communities in Oklahoma.
