Keeping Elders Safe in Winter

Think about Home Care Services

With winter upon us, it is difficult for many family members to assist elderly relatives. In some cases, it is a simple fact that distance makes it impossible to attend to elderly parents. But even short distances can be greatly effected by weather.  Bad driving conditions, slippery roads, poor visibility, can prevent family involvement for those who may live relatively nearby.

Take precautionary and preventative steps to keep family elders safe. Is there a back-up plan which might involve local neighbors? Do you know of community resources (volunteers; outreach services) that can provide assistance when/if needed?

Home care agencies can provide an extra set of eyes, hands, and help to insure seniors remain safe and comfortable during winter months.

Helping your loved one avoid “cabin fever.”  For homebound seniors, winter can be a time of extreme boredom. Nothing happens in their day-to-day living environment. Meals and watching television are the only checkpoints of their daily existence. No visitors, no events, no activities. This boredom and isolation can result in feeling quite depressed. But homecare staff can provide a daily visit. Someone to talk to. Care staff can transport your loved one to his or her usual activities, or simply get them out of the house for a short drive. Socialization and companionship is a very positive antidote to loneliness, and our staff can engage in homebound activities such as crafts, reading, writing, organizing, board games, puzzles, and card games.

Eliminating fall hazards.  At Home Care Partners, we provide help to our elderly clients in keeping their homes clean, and orderly. Care staff can coordinate and manage functions such as snow removal from driveway, walkways, and stairs. Perhaps de-ice may be thrown out on driveway before travel. The caregiver can bring in the mail from the mailbox, or the newspaper outside the front door.

Keeping your loved one safe during power outages.  Our care staff can assure your family/parents are safe. Windstorms and heavy snow knock out power for millions each year. Darkness and cold endanger frail seniors, especially those with cognitive issues or age related dementia. Seniors who rely on electrically powered medical equipment, oxygen machines, or mobility devices can be put in life threatening situations without assistance. Home care providers can enable safety, including transportation to a warm facility, home, or designated shelter.

JD Miller

About JD Miller

JD Miller

About JD Miller

John D. Miller is the founder/owner of Home Care Partners, LLC, a Massachusetts business providing private duty, personalized in-home assistance and companion care services to those needing help in daily activities and household functions. Phone: (781) 378-2164 Email: [email protected] Website: https://homecarepartnersma.com
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