Helping Your Senior Prepare for Winter

Winter days are approaching and that means colder weather and the chance of snow and ice accumulation. These changes can pose a threat to seniors if they are not prepared. If winter weather should strike, families can rest easier knowing that their loved one is safe and has adequate supplies. Here are some ways you can help to winterize your senior’s home:

Check the heating system

Temperatures can quickly drop during the winter making proper heat an even greater necessity. Seniors are often more sensitive to changes in temperature and may get cold more easily. Schedule a maintenance call to have their heating system checked to ensure it is in proper working condition. Replace filters and make sure they know how to set the system to a comfortable temperature. Also check smoke detectors as well as carbon monoxide detectors and put in fresh batteries. This will alert your senior so they can escape potentially dangerous situations.

Keep pantries and supplies well stocked

Make sure that your senior has plenty of non-perishable foods, bottles of water, and emergency medications. Stock up on batteries, flashlights, blankets, and other essentials in case the power should go out.

Have salt for walkways

Keep a container of salt on hand for when your senior ventures out. They can sprinkle it on icy patches or on wet surfaces to help prevent freezing. Make arrangements for someone to clear their walkway or driveway after a storm so that they do not have to do this themselves. If they are part of a homeowners association, the association may take responsibility for snow removal. In other cases, neighborhoods are often full of teenagers or young adults who would be willing to help out.

Seal doors and windows

Older homes especially can have cracked or broken seals around doors and windows. Consider replacing or repairing these seals or adding extra protection. Placing a draft stopper along the bottom of doorways and across window sills can also reduce the amount of cold air that enters and heat that escapes.

Check in frequently

Call or stop by to check in on your loved one. If you aren’t available, make arrangements with a reliable friend or neighbor, or use an in-home care service. Knowing that someone is regularly visiting with, checking in on, and assisting your senior can give you peace of mind as to their safety, health, and wellbeing. 

Don’t let the winter weather get ahead of you. Make plans now to assist your senior in preparing for the season and ensuring that they have everything they need.

Protecting Against Cold and Flu This Season

Having the flu or even a bad cold is enough to make almost anyone feel miserable. While these illnesses generally pass within a few days for relatively healthy individuals, they pose increased risk to people over age 65. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention[1], “During most seasons, it’s estimated that 90 percent of seasonal flu-related deaths and between 50 and 60 percent of seasonal flu-related hospitalizations in the United States occur in people 65 years and older.” Taking precautions to reduce risk of infection can help seniors to stay healthier this season.

·         Wash your hands: This is one of the most common recommendations for people of all ages and for good reason. Regularly washing your hands can minimize the amount of germs you are spreading. Always wash your hands before eating and try to avoid touching your face as the eyes, nose, and mouth are gateways for germs into the body. If you’re out in public, be conscientious about the surfaces you touch and make sure to wash your hands or use hand sanitizer to reduce the spread of germs.

·         Boost your immune system: As people age, their immune system begins to weaken and they are more susceptible to illness. Eating a well-balanced diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and getting a good night’s rest every day can keep your immune system stronger.

·         Get vaccinated: Seniors are encouraged to get high-dose flu vaccines as well as the pneumococcal vaccine. This can protect against certain strains of the flu as well as pneumococcal disease, which includes pneumonia. You should get vaccinated every year as the vaccine changes depending on which viruses are thought to be most common for the season.

·         Limit visits with those who are ill: Try to limit exposure to anyone who is sick until their symptoms have subsided. Although this can be inconvenient at times, it can reduce risk of contracting or spreading germs. If you are sick, try to minimize your contact with others so you don’t make them sick as well. If you are around others who are sick, make sure to wash your hands regularly.

·         Stay alert for signs of illness: Being proactive can help you to reduce risk of complications from the flu. Practice good health measures and monitor any symptoms you may develop. Talk to your doctor if you know you are at increased risk and ask what they recommend. Ensure that you are resting, drinking water, and eating well to keep up your strength and allow your body to fight off any infection.

While there is no way to entirely eliminate the risk of getting sick, taking proper precautions can help to reduce exposure to germs. Know your body and recognize signs that you are not feeling well so that you can act quickly to treat illness and monitor your recovery. Caregivers should check in frequently on seniors who fall ill to ensure they get the medical care they need to minimize complications and enhance recovery.

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[1] http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/65over.htm

Ways to Support a Loved One with Alzheimer’s Disease

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be challenging as their condition progresses and leads to more changes in their memory and behavior. Making modifications to smooth transitions and help them to remain as independent as possible can be beneficial and enhance care. There are many ways in which you can support your senior:

·         Write down important information in an easily accessible place: As their memory begins to slip, it can be more difficult to remember essential information. Post a list on the refrigerator or right next to the phone of contact numbers, medication information, or other important details. Not only does this make it easier for your senior to find, but should someone visit and need to contact you, the information is easily accessible. You can also write down simple directions such as how to operate the television or DVD player in case they need a quick reminder.

·         Make labels for drawers and cabinets: This serves as a visual cue of where things are located and can cut down on frustration of locating or putting away various items. You could use words, pictures, or both.

·         Set reminders: Use a phone or other device to set reminders that alert your loved one of when it is time to take medication or if they have an upcoming appointment. This can keep them to better manage their medication and not miss out on appointments or events. If they have become disoriented to time or date, this can be especially helpful and help steer them back to the present.

·         Follow routines: People with Alzheimer’s may get more easily frustrated and confused. Try to follow structured routines so they get into the habit of doing certain things, or when things occur. This can make transitions easier and help them to more easily recall what comes next because it is a repetitive action. Creating a routine also reduces the need for your senior to have to make decisions.

·         Stay active: Remaining social and physically active can help to boost mental alertness and mood. Plan activities for your loved one to participate in, or schedule regular outings together. This can reduce mental decline and improve mobility and dexterity.

·         Remain calm: It can be frustrating to have to repeat yourself or answer the same questions over and over again when your loved one’s memory is fading. Try to be patient and remain calm, especially if your senior is getting agitated. Bring up happy memories, redirect them to something they enjoy, and keep things as stress-free as possible. The more you understand your loved one, the easier it can be to make connections and work with them as things change.

Don’t be afraid to reach out for support or ask for help if you need it. Through in-home care and other services, you can ensure that your loved one stays safe and gets the help that they need. Joining a support group for caregivers can allow you to connect with others going through similar situations. Simple changes can help both you and your loved one to enjoy the time you spend together and support them in maintaining their independence as much as possible.