Did you know that more than a third of persons over the age of 45 reports feeling lonely, according to a survey from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM)? It is important that you stay in close contact with your elderly relatives to ensure their safety and well-being. Regular check-ins help reassure them that someone cares for them. This can make a huge difference in their mental health.
Winter months create additional challenges for seniors. With shorter days and colder weather, it can be difficult for our senior loved ones to stay active and engaged. Regular check-ins can provide you with peace of mind that your relative is doing well and staying healthy during the winter season. But how often should you check in on them? It can be difficult to decide how much is too much or not enough. Read on for a few tips about winter check-ins for elderly relatives so you can find the perfect balance of keeping tabs on their well-being without overstepping boundaries.
Weather Conditions
The weather can play a significant role in how often you should check in on your elderly relatives during the winter months. If there is an impending storm, snowfall, or other inclement weather, it may be wise to check in with them more frequently than usual. This gives you peace of mind and lets your loved ones know that someone will always be there if they need help. Additionally, extreme temperatures can pose health risks to seniors, so make sure to call or visit more frequently if needed.
Daily Habits
It's also helpful to consider the daily habits of your elderly relative when deciding how often you should check in with them during the winter months. Are they able to take care of themselves independently? Do they have reliable transportation? Can they easily leave the house if needed? Make sure that your loved one has access to all the necessary resources.
Also, you need to ensure the home is safe from slips and falls by installing handrails, motion light sensors, nightlights, and other safety measures.
Specialized Services
If you think that checking in more frequently would benefit your elderly relative, consider looking into services such as Senior Helpers North-Central OC which provide companionship and assistance with daily living activities.
Specialized services like these are designed specifically for seniors who may need additional support throughout the day or week. You can be rest assured knowing that a professional staff member is there to look after your elderly family members and keep them safe from harm during the coldest and darkest days of winter.
Senior Helpers Can Help!
Check-ins during any season are important but especially during winter when seniors may face harsher conditions than normal. By taking into account weather conditions, daily habits, and specialized services from Senior Helpers North Central OC, adult children can ensure their elderly relatives get the care they need while still maintaining their independence this holiday season.
Our team of experienced caregivers and friendly staff in Yorba Linda, Fullerton, Anaheim, Anaheim Hills, Brea, Placentia, and La Habra are here to help your elderly loved ones remain safe, healthy, and independent. Contact us today to learn more about our services.