Winter can be a challenging season for seniors, with the need to prepare for colder temperatures, icy conditions, and potential snowstorms. By planning ahead, you can help ensure that your aging loved one stays warm, safe, and comfortable throughout this winter season. Here are some essential winter safety tips to help seniors remain healthy and happy at home.
1. Make Warm Blankets & Winter Clothes Accessible
As cold weather sets in, make sure all warm items like blankets, winter coats, scarves, and hats are within easy reach. Older adults may store these items in hard-to-reach places during the summer, so bring them into their main living areas for convenience. Having cozy items accessible is crucial for staying warm, especially before the first winter storm.
2. Check the Chimney, Heater & Safety Detectors
Have the fireplace or wood stove professionally cleaned to prevent dangerous creosote buildup, which can pose a fire risk. Have the HVAC system and heating filters checked to ensure the furnace is operating efficiently. Katy Packingham, Agency Director in Caring Senior Service’s Galesburg, IL, office, recommends scheduling this service early to avoid mid-winter breakdowns.
Additionally, check all carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to make sure they’re functioning. These devices are essential during winter months, especially in homes with fireplaces or wood stoves that can emit dangerous gases.
3. Set Up Grocery Delivery or Pickup
Winter weather can make grocery shopping difficult for seniors. So consider setting up a grocery delivery or pickup service ahead of time. This way, they won’t need to venture out in icy conditions or navigate snowy parking lots.
4. Schedule Snow Removal Services
To prevent seniors from attempting risky outdoor chores, arrange for a trusted neighbor, family member, or professional service to handle de-icing and snow removal. Icy steps, sidewalks, and driveways pose significant fall risks. So it’s essential to have someone available to clear snow and add salt or sand. Additionally, Katy suggests planning this service in advance to avoid last-minute challenges.
RELATED CONTENT: Common Winter Hazards for Seniors
5. Prepare for Emergencies
Being prepared for winter emergencies is vital. Power outages and heavy snowstorms can leave seniors in extremely cold temperatures without access to essential resources. Create an emergency kit that includes the following:
- First aid supplies
- Blankets
- Batteries
- A flashlight
- A weather radio
- A charged backup cell phone.
Stock your loved one’s pantry with easy-to-eat, non-perishable foods that don’t require cooking. Ensure they have any necessary medications on hand. If your loved one’s home relies on propane tanks for heating, verify they’re adequately filled.
6. Insulate the Home
Keep warmth inside the home by adding insulation to windows and doors. Install plastic covers over glass windows and replace worn weather stripping. Adding a layer of thick curtains over windows can help trap warmth. Even a simple door sweep at the bottom of entry doors can keep cold air out and reduce heating costs.
Sealing any visible cracks in doors and windows can prevent drafts and save on heating costs. Caulking or weatherstripping around window frames and door edges ensures that homes remain warmer, even in extreme weather. Removing window air conditioning units for the season also helps retain heat and block cold drafts.
7. Check Water Heaters & Pipes
Winter can be harsh on water systems, so checking the water heater and inspecting pipes is essential. Katy advises having the water heater examined to ensure it’s in good working order. Additionally, insulate pipes to prevent freezing and bursting. Katy recommends pre-slit pipe foam or heat tape, both of which are easy to install and can prevent costly damage. Burst pipes and cold showers are the last things anyone wants in winter!
8. Ensure Plants Are Winter-Ready
If your loved one has indoor plants, Katy suggests checking their watering needs, as the dry indoor air can affect them. For outdoor plants, consider moving delicate ones indoors or providing insulation. Asking for help from neighbors, friends, or caregivers can help ensure plants stay healthy throughout the season.
9. Consider a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat is an excellent addition for seniors because it automatically adjusts temperatures throughout the day. These thermostats can help reduce heating bills by lowering temperatures at night or when the senior is out of the house while ensuring the home stays warm when needed. Seniors can use a programmable thermostat in the summer, offering year-round comfort and cost savings.
10. Don’t Forget About Outdoor Maintenance
Along with preparing the inside of the home, it’s essential to ensure the exterior is winter-ready as well. Clean the gutters to prevent ice buildup, which can damage the roof and cause leaks. Remove dead tree limbs to prevent potential damage during ice storms. Finally, install any removable storm windows or doors for added insulation.
Addressing Winter Challenges with Caring Senior Service
Winterizing a senior’s home can be a significant undertaking, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Caring Senior Service, our compassionate team can provide vendor recommendations to assist with winter preparations. Our caregivers can provide in-home support to ensure seniors are safe, warm, and comfortable throughout the season. If your loved one could use extra support this winter, contact your local Caring Senior Service office to learn how we can help.
