Home care Safety Tips for older adults in Autumn and Winter

Autumn is perhaps the best time in Australia, where one can engage in outdoor activities whilst enjoying the cooler months. 

Here are some safety tips for older adults from Home Care Assistance:

Use rugs and shawls:

Now is the time to break out the winter woolens from storage. With age, different metabolic processes regulating body temperature slow down. Thus, older adults who may be receiving in-home care have a higher risk of contracting hypothermia, even when outside temperatures are moderately cold. Older adults receiving in-home care services benefit from layering up with warm clothes. These could be scarves, jumpers, beanies, or even long-johns. Home Care career can ensure that seniors are padded up and use the indoor heating system that’s in place.

Surroundings should be injury-proof:

One of the things that you can do is ensure the home surroundings are injury proof. Falls are a big concern during the cooler months of autumn and winter because the sensation in the feet and legs can be reduced. With support through home care packages, you can be confident that your loved one will receive the best care in your absence.

Take care when spending time outdoors:

When your loved one is receiving home nursing care, they may be keen to spend some time outdoors, especially now that COVID has been kept under control in Australia and the weather is pleasant. When engaging in activities such as gardening, most important to avoid the afternoon sun and use sun protection. Also, venturing out in dark after sunset should be limited as the risk of falls increases.

Flu:

With the Coronavirus grabbing headlines, it is easy to forget about other nasty ailments like the flu. While the flu is not deadly, it can still cause a lot of respiratory problems, especially in older adults. Ensure that older adults take precautions and consult their doctor about Flu shot

Following the above guidelines will largely shield your loved one’s health from the vagaries of nature and ensure that you have a stress free and happy time during this autumn and winter.