Winters can be a difficult time for senior citizens. The cold climate can limit their outings, making it hard to obtain necessary things and items. During the chill weather, if your elders don’t acquire their medicine on time, it could impact their health negatively. Here is a checklist of things to keep in mind when creating an emergency plan for your elderly loved one during the winter.
Medication
Always talk to your doctor before you start or stop giving your elders any medication. Some illnesses make it difficult to keep their body warm, like thyroid problems that make it hard to maintain average temperatures, diabetes, and arthritis, which can make movement difficult to put on clothes. Not being active or exercising can also affect body heat. Clear out old medication and ask your doctor for an extra week’s prescription so that they won’t have to worry about going out in the cold.
Medical Supplies and Equipment
The winter season can make it difficult for your elders to acquire certain items. Ensure your seniors have access to their medical supplies and equipment like mobility kits, blood sugar monitors, oxygen equipment, etc. Make it convenient for them to reach their medical supplies and equipment so they can still focus on their health despite the cold climate.
Household Goods and Supplies
If a snowstorm occurs, it might take some time to clear up. It also means that if your elders require something, it would be difficult or even impossible at that time to obtain it. Ensure their house is in perfect condition. Examine whether all electronics and appliances are working. Check if they have all the needed household goods. Also, check if they have ample supplies to last the winter, like garbage bags, paper towels, toilet paper, bathing products and other items.
Food and Water Supplies
Winters restrict seniors’ outings as they could slip on ice and injure themselves. The cold season is also when you notice them lacking vitamin D. To make up for the deficiency, prepare meals rich in vitamin D and calcium. Include foods such as milk, eggs and fish in their daily meals. You can also provide them with vitamin and mineral supplements.
Cooking Sources
It is best practice to serve your older family members home-cooked meals. But if that is not possible, make sure to schedule grocery and meal delivery so they don’t have to step out of the house. A pre-made meal will also be convenient for them to have.
Miscellaneous Items
Ensure they have lots of warm clothing like sweaters and jackets. Also, make sure they wear non-slip footwear and gloves to cover their fingers.
If you are looking for a senior health care facility or caregiving for your elderly family members, reach out to Cherokee Angel Senior Care and Training Center. Our trained professionals provide your loved ones with the utmost care. Contact us today.