Fall may have just started, but with the new seasons comes cold weather. Soon, before you realise it, everyone will be experiencing winter and its chilly temperatures. It’s time for you or a home care provider to help your senior loved one prepare their home for winter’s colder days. Here are some of the best tips to remember when you go to your loved ones house next.
Observe Your Loved One
Seniors may not like to complain to home care about the temperatures, but that doesn’t mean they’re not feeling it. If they live alone, they may be battling the winter temperature and not want to adjust the thermostat. They may also not be dressing right for the current weather. Home care can help get them up for the day and ensure a senior stays warm. Here are a few signs that your loved one is cold.
- Shivering
- Memory Loss
- Loss of Dexterity
- Confusion
If your loved one is experiencing any of these, it’s time to help bundle them up and get them into a warm place to get more comfortable. When your loved one is cold, their brain is working slower than normal, and this means it could be harder to do things.
Check All Windows
You may wrap your windows up to keep warm air in and cold air out, but this doesn’t mean your elderly mom took the time to do that. She may not be able to move like she used to, and she may not have the supplies. Check all windows and doors to ensure they can securely be shut, and help your loved one wrap up windows that allow the heat to escape. This will help keep their house warm and comfortable during the coldest days.
Check the HVAC System
The HVAC system is responsible for cooling and heating. It should be maintained throughout the year, and if it needs repairs, it should be done before the temperature drops. Even with central air, your loved one may require extra heat sources. You can buy them portable heaters that can be plugged in or even a heated blanket they can snuggle up with on the couch. It’s time to see if your seniors’ home is able to stay warm and then find them alternative heat sources.
Ensure They Are Eating
Your senior loved one may forget to eat, and unfortunately, this can lead them to be colder than they normally would be. This is the perfect season to make a hot soup or chili or any other warm, comforting meal. You can use the oven to heat up the house and make a hot dish for your loved one to enjoy. If they need help cooking, this is something that home care can provide them with. They are able to prepare meals in advance that will allow your loved one to just plop them in the oven at the end of the night. This is a great way to ensure they’re eating enough and getting the proper nutrition.
If you or an ageing loved one are considering Home Care in Leduc, please contact the caring staff at Serving Hands Senior Care today. Call (780) 963-1516
Premiere Home Health and Senior Home Care services in Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Devon, St. Albert, Edmonton, Onoway, Leduc, Parkland County and surrounding communities since 2016.
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