How Often Should You Check In on Elderly Relatives During the Winter
When the weather gets chilly, seniors might experience a reduction in body temperature more easily than when they were young. This increases the risk of falling as well as being affected by illnesses such as flu and severe cold. Fortunately, winter doesn't have to be a difficult time for an elderly loved one. With responsible preparation, smart planning, and often checking on them, families can ensure that their senior loved ones have a safe and happy winter season. Below are some tips to do when checking on seniors this season:
How Often Can You Check in On Your Elderly Loved One During the Winter?
Because it can be dangerous and challenging to get around, a number of senior loved ones have less contact with others in the winter months. This can bring feelings of isolation and loneliness.
To help avoid these problems, family members may check in on elderly loved ones as often as possible; a short daily phone call can make a huge difference. In addition, seeking professional caregivers' help can go a long way in helping seniors survive the cold winter months.
The Value of Hiring a Caregiver for In-Home Help for a Senior Loved One
Many benefits come with hiring a caregiver for checking on seniors this winter season. Here are some of them:
1. One-on-One Attention
A senior loved one can be the caregiver's primary focus due to the intimate nature of home care. Their work is to give senior loved ones the degree of attention and care that will keep them comfortable and safe.
2. Caregivers Give Peace of Mind
Whether out of state or out of town, staying far from a senior loved one makes it challenging to know about their health. Hiring a caregiver gives peace of mind that the needs of an elderly loved one are met every day, even in the absence of a family member.
3. Caregivers Support Confidence, Independence, and Happiness
Having an in-home caregiver helps seniors to receive assistance with hygiene and personal care. It is true that not every senior has extensive needs, though the added support upholds their self-confidence and dignity.
4. Safe Transportation
Many seniors become unsafe drivers at some point and must give up their keys. This brings limits to their independence and ability to complete daily tasks such as visiting friends and going to church. A professional caregiver can accompany them to doctor's appointments, social events, and more. This kind of assistance can expand a senior's world outside their home and help them to remain mentally and physically active.
Bottom Line
Checking on seniors frequently and having a keen awareness of their current health can help them thrive well during winter despite being more vulnerable to illnesses. Ensuring they stay and dress warmly, feed well, stay active, avoid slips and falls and take their medications, if any, as directed, can help an elderly loved one stay healthy and comfortable during winter.
At Senior Helpers of South Minneapolis, we help clients in Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Saint Paul, and Minnetonka in receiving quality in-home care services for senior loved ones. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our services.