Winter can be a magical time of year; fluffy snowflakes falling from the sky, snow-capped treetops, crystalline icicles reflecting the sun, staying cozy by the fireplace while sipping on a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Yes, winter can be wonderful. But to enjoy all these winter delights, it’s important to take the proper precautions to stay safe and healthy. For seniors in particular, winter can be one of the trickier seasons of the year. With the following guidelines, seniors can remain safe and healthy all while enjoying the many great aspects of the winter months.
Related: A Healthy Mind, Body and Soul
1. Dress For The Weather
Winter is a time for cozy sweaters, thick socks, and fashionable mittens. When it comes to home safety for seniors, layers are key. It’s easy to fall prey to the cold bite of Jack Frost, even the slightest exposed skin can cause irritation. By bundling up in layers of sweaters, coats, hats, mitts, and scarves, you can confidently take on the great outdoors. Even when inside, layers are the answer. Nothing says cozy like pulling on your warmest slippers, cuddling up under a blanket, and enjoying a nice cup of tea while enjoying the winter scene outside your window.
2. Stay Connected
One aspect of home safety for seniors includes mental well-being. It’s important to keep in contact with loved ones; it’s greatly beneficial to your mental health to visit when you can and have regular phone calls and video chats when you’re stuck at home. There are so many excellent means of staying connected these days and seniors can take full advantage of those options. Retirement Lifestyle communities are a great option for seniors, allowing the extra bit of care and support as needed as well as opportunities for socializing. Many retirement lifestyle options offer programs and events as a part of their services for all residents to take part. This includes anything from personal hobbies, workout programs, social evenings, and dining with friends. Whether checking in with family or creating new friendships, the important thing is to stay connected and keep an open mind.
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3. Regular Car Checkups
For seniors who still enjoy getting behind the wheel, car maintenance is extremely important, especially once the temperature starts to drop below freezing. It’s good to do a check before driving longer distances: does the oil need to be changed? Is there plenty of washer fluid? How much gas is left in the tank? What’s the tire pressure like? These are important features of which to keep track. For those who aren’t as comfortable driving, especially on the icy roads, but still need to run errands or make doctor’s appointments, it never hurts to ask for help. Have a loved one pick you up or call for a car service like Uber or Lyft. There are plenty of options for staying safe on the roads during the winter.
4. Be Prepared
Always be prepared. It’s a motto that works for the Boy Scouts, and it works when it comes to safety for seniors as well. Winter storms can wreak havoc on the hydro and it’s not uncommon to experience power outages during a blizzard. Seniors should be ready by having plenty of warm blankets, a battery-powered radio, and flashlights readily available in case of such an emergency. Another home safety tip for seniors is to keep the pantry and medicine cabinet well stocked. One hearty storm could keep you snowed in for several days.
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5. Smart Technology
The technology available today is astounding. There are plenty of incredible uses for phones, tablets, and computers that make a modern living even more convenient. Voice activated systems can be quite useful, particularly in the home’s safety for seniors. With the right technology, voice commands can be made from anywhere in the house to call for assistance, control heating and lighting, keep track of medications and appointments, and even tell you when it’s time to stock up on your groceries!
Safety for seniors includes staying active, and Sifton recognizes that. Sifton’s retirement options offer the opportunity to explore individual hobbies, participate in group activities as well as weekly events, and delicious, heart-healthy meals.
Sifton Retirement Living brings people together in comfort and convenience. There are three types of retirement residences available including independent living, with varying levels of extra support when needed, retiree apartments that provide full independence to active seniors, and Villas, providing single storey living with necessary amenities just steps away.
If you’re looking for that extra peace-of-mind and community connection, a retirement lifestyle might be the best option for you or your loved one! Start your search today and learn more about Sifton Retirement Living!