Winter season is never easy. Each year will be accompanied by its own challenges, such as power outages, slippery surfaces, sudden heating problems, and communication shortages. For seniors and their caregivers, it is advisable to plan ahead to ensure protection during the winter. Here are six essential tips on winter safety.
If you would like to have peace of mind during winter, why not consider senior living in Ellenton, FL?
Conduct a Safety Inventory In Advance
Never wait until it’s too late. It is best to prepare your home and supplies beforehand, since stocks may run low by the time winter is here. We recommend having your HVAC system and fireplace inspected annually to ensure they are in good condition. Furthermore, it is a good idea to have your decks and railings inspected before winter to prevent damage later. Before the ice impedes you, clean out your gutters and drain all water hoses. Make sure there are no fragile branches on trees near your home that may turn brittle or heavy with snow later to avoid any property damage or possible physical injury during winter.
Arrange For Help To Remove Snow and Ice
Seniors lose body heat much faster than younger adults, and in cold conditions, your heart works double time to keep you warm. Hence, you shouldn’t shovel snow as it may put too much strain on your heart. It is also harmful to carry out strenuous activities if you have problems balancing, or suffer from osteoporosis. Hence, ensure that you have someone dependable and available to shovel snow and remove ice during winter. Seek their help to dry your vents and clean your gutters too, if it becomes necessary!
Prepare Your Supplies
Since transportation might be dangerous during winter, arrange beforehand to ensure that you have someone available to help you shop for groceries. Alternatively, arrange for a grocery service to keep you well-stocked during the winter. Ensure that you have enough food and medication to last you for several days at any given time. In the event that streets are blocked or mobility is limited, it is best to have these supplies prepared. Have battery-operated flashlights and extra batteries ready as well, in the event of a power outage.
Check For Fire Hazards
If you rely on space heaters or heating pads, be aware that unchecked or unattended items such as these can become fire hazards. Some examples of these include candles, old electric cables, and overloaded outlets. Check these and remove or repair the unsafe items beforehand. Put new batteries into smoke and carbon monoxide detectors as well.
Ensure Ready and Open Communication
Check whether all important phone numbers, such as family contacts, food delivery services, healthcare providers, and emergency contacts are ready and placed in a visible location, such as on a refrigerator. If your telephone will not work during a power outage, keep a mobile phone charged and on the ready for emergencies.
If your family lives far away, arrange for a friend or a neighbor to check on you every week or so during the winter. Also, consider a medical alert system that will respond immediately to an emergency.
Consider The Benefits of a Retirement Community
If any of these tasks seem daunting, consider senior living instead! Our Aston Gardens At Sun City Center retirement community will take care of all these precautions for you. There is no reason why you should compromise on your safety and enjoyment during the winter, and our retirement community is equipped with various amenities, activities, and a housekeeping team to cater to all your needs. You won’t have to worry about food, travel, or boredom even during the winter. To learn more, call us today!
