5. ALWAYS CARRY A CELLPHONE
In the event of an emergency, a cellphone can be a valuable
lifeline, and that’s true in winter as well. Make sure that
older adults always have a charged cellphone with them
so they can call family, caregivers or emergency service
personnel in the event of an emergency. It can also be
helpful to program important numbers into the phone,
and teach them how to use the phone’s voice assistant to
make dialing easier. Depending on their technical ability,
wearable devices with fall and pulse detection can also be
helpful in an emergency.
6. CONSIDER DEDICATED TRANSPORTATION
In the event that conditions would be too hazardous for
older adults to drive, dedicated transportation services can
often still take them to appointments or important errands.
Consider enrolling them with these services so they can
still make it to doctor’s visits or grocery stores even when
there’s snow on the ground. Some non-medical home care
agencies also offer transportation services for seniors.
7. CHECK THEIR HOME REGULARLY
It’s important to check in with aging loved ones living
on their own regularly, to avoid or solve any hazards
and environmental issues within the home. This includes
checking the thermostat to ensure it hasn’t been turned
down too low — lower than 68 degrees Fahrenheit can
raise the risk of hypothermia even indoors — and that the
home’s utilities are properly functioning. Regular visits
can also help to spot fall hazards before they occur, like
puddles from melted snow or rugs and furniture that might
pose a risk.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Winter doesn’t have to be a dangerous time for older
adults. With smart planning and responsible preparation,
family caregivers can ensure their loved ones have a happy
and safe season. In addition to all of this, be sure to check
what local services are available, such as home energy
assistance programs, which may help older adults offset
some of the costs of the season as well.
Rebecca Rushing, BSN, RN, is director of Client Care
Services for FirstLight Home Care. Nurse Beckie is a
certified dementia practitioner, an Ageless Grace brain
health educator and has been trained in Teepa Snow’s
“Positive Approach to Care.” Beckie has more than 30
years of nursing experience and a passion for the wellbeing
of older adults.
TODAY’S CAREGIVER MAGAZINE • CAREGIVER.COM 23