It's time to start thinking about home maintenance tasks as fall arrives. These projects are essential to keep your home safe and comfortable but some tasks can be risky for seniors, especially those that involve heights or heavy lifting. Remember that asking for help isn't a sign of weakness—it's a smart way to ensure your safety and well-being. Here are eight fall chores seniors should ask for help with.
1. Cleaning Gutters
Cleaning gutters prevents water damage to your home. However, climbing ladders and balancing to clean gutters is precariously dangerous, especially for seniors. Risks include falls and serious injuries. Instead of tackling this task alone, ask family or friends, or hire a professional to help keep your gutters clean and functioning properly.
2. Raking and Bagging Leaves
A clear yard isn't just aesthetically pleasing. It's also safer to walk through, but raking and bagging leaves can be physically demanding and pose a risk of back injuries or slips and falls. Consider asking for a helping hand or hiring a yard service to manage this fall chore.
3. Inspecting and Cleaning the Roof
Roof maintenance is essential to prevent leaks and damages, but it can be dangerous due to the heights and uneven surfaces involved. A professional who can safely and thoroughly inspect and clean your roof should handle this task.
4. Bringing in Outdoor Furniture
As the weather changes, it's time to bring in outdoor furniture to protect it from the elements. This usually involves heavy lifting and awkward movements, leading to strains and sprains. Ask family members or friends to help carry and store your outdoor furniture safely.
5. Checking and Cleaning Chimneys
Check and clean the chimneys to ensure efficient and safe operation of your heating system. The task involves climbing and exposure to soot and debris, which can be hazardous. Hiring a professional chimney sweep is the best way to ensure this job is done safely and effectively.
6. Sealing Windows and Doors
Ensuring your windows and doors are properly sealed is critical for energy efficiency and comfort during the colder months. As you know, reaching certain areas and applying weather stripping can be challenging. It's a good idea to ask for assistance from a family member or hire a handyman.
7. Pruning Trees and Shrubs
Pruning trees and shrubs improves plant health and yard appearance, but using sharp tools and reaching high branches can be risky. To avoid potential injuries, seek help from a gardening service or a knowledgeable neighbor who can safely handle the pruning.
8. Cleaning and Storing Garden Tools
Before winter arrives, garden tools should be cleaned and stored properly to ensure they last and are ready for the next season. This task involves bending and sometimes, heavy lifting, which can strain your body. Ask for assistance from family members or friends to clean and properly store your tools.
Stay Safe Indoors and Out With Senior Helpers
Asking for help with outdoor fall chores ensures that these tasks are completed without risking your well-being. If you or a loved one in Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Fort Pierce, or Okeechobee need help with your indoor chores, from light housework to meal preparation, contact us at Senior Helpers Vero Beach for reliable and compassionate assistance.