Helping the Elderly Overcome the Winter Months in Overland Park Kansas
The winter months in Overland Park, Kansas, can get very miserable. With harsh, dry wind and temperatures reaching below freezing, it gets difficult to push through the gloom. The long months can affect your mood negatively, especially when you have no choice but to stay inside all season. Winter and the elderly do not typically mix well, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are some tips that can help you push through the winter with confidence.
Look Out for Slippery Areas
Winter brings snow and ice, and both can create fall hazards. Unfortunately, falls can be more dangerous for seniors than for other people. Seniors can incur severe injuries from a fall and often have difficulty getting back up. Be sure to keep a bucket of salt handy or find some local volunteers who are willing to take care of your porch and walkway ice before it becomes a problem. Don’t forget to clean up spills inside the house too, especially keeping a lookout for melting snow from shoes around the front door. This slipping hazard can be easy to overlook, so make sure to keep the floors dry.
Stock Up on Food, Water, and First Aid
Overland Park has harsh winters. This can make it difficult for you to get to the store or for your caretaker to get to you. If your family is far away, you might not be able to get food quickly. It is important to make sure you have enough emergency food and water to get you through these unpredictable moments.
Make Sure There Is a Working Camera Phone Nearby
Even if you are prepared with full emergency supplies and have kept all of the major fall areas clear, you might still need help. Winter and the elderly are old enemies. This doesn’t have to be worrisome, though, as long as you have people whom you can call who can get to you in time.
Make sure you have a cell phone, just in case the landline goes out. Winters in Overland Park are windy, and power shortages are always a risk. Make sure you have preset numbers on your phone so that you have people you can call or people who can call for help for you. Some good numbers to have on your phone are the numbers for your family, the hospital, the police, and your local senior care specialists.
Use What You Have Around You
It is difficult to find things to do when you’re stuck inside for the winter. While you’ve got that cell phone out though, why not make a few calls? You can connect with your family, which helps lift your mood and take away that seasonal depression. You can check in with your caretakers and let them know if you need any help. You could learn a new hobby with your loved ones or simply sit by the fire. There is plenty to do that doesn’t require going outdoors, and being creative with what you already have can brighten your day!
There are great resources nearby if you are looking for senior care in Kansas. A Better Solution in Home Care is always there to help with anything you need to make you comfortable in the Kansas winters. Whether you need someone to check in on you, drive you to an appointment, remind you of your medication times, and more, A Better Solution in Home Care has your back. Call (877) 585-9011 to learn more.
Senior living in Kansas isn’t always easy, but never be afraid to reach out for help. People would love to spend time with you to make sure you are comfortable and safe. Winter is hard, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. Take these steps to make sure this year is a good one!
