Spring Prep Guide: How Seniors Can Get Ready for Spring

The temperatures are getting warmer, flowers are sprouting, and the days are longer. This could only mean one thing: spring has finally arrived!

Spring is the season of regrowth and renewal. However, the warmer weather poses unique challenges for seniors, including wet road conditions and seasonal allergies. Thankfully, with some proactive preparation, older adults can overcome these obstacles and enjoy spring to the fullest.

Use these four tips to get all aspects of your life—from your health to your home—ready for spring.

1. Get Your Vehicle Springtime-Ready

Although the snow and ice are gone, spring brings new driving hazards. Rain, wildlife, and potholes from the thawing snow all pose threats. To stay safe, seniors must ensure their vehicles are in tip-top shape. Have someone experienced with car maintenance check your tires and replace your windshield wipers, and be vigilant while driving on slippery roads. If you must drive during a spring rainstorm, stay in the middle lane, increase your following distance, and avoid deep potholes.

You should also carry an emergency kit in your car at all times. This kit should have jumper cables, bottled water, LED flares, a portable phone charger, a flashlight, an emergency poncho, a first aid kit, and blankets.

2. Overcoming Seasonal Allergies

As we age, our bodies will respond to allergies differently than when we were younger. That’s because our immune systems can become overactive or weakened. Older adults must be vigilant about their allergy symptoms. While you may think a persistent cold causes your sneezing and stuffiness, these might be signs of seasonal allergies.

If you haven’t been diagnosed with allergies in the past, now’s the time to talk to an immunologist or allergist. Getting a clinical diagnosis ensures you receive the proper treatment for your allergies.

3. Dress for the Season

You might be tempted to ditch your winter clothes as warmer days roll around. However, springtime weather is unpredictable. While one day might be warm and sunny, the next can be cold and rainy. Don’t put your warm clothes in storage just yet. Dressing in layers is the best way to prepare for dramatic weather changes. Wear a T-shirt under a light sweatshirt or jacket.

Planning on spending more time outside? Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen! No matter the season, older adults should opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

4. Spruce Up Your Home

Spring cleaning involves much more than vacuuming and dusting. Seniors should also get their HVAC units cleaned and checked by a team of professionals. This ensures you’ll stay cool and comfortable when summer arrives.

Have a roofing company check your roof and clean your gutters. You should also make sure your outside lights and cameras are functioning optimally.

Visiting Angels of Tulsa, OK, Helps Seniors Get Ready for Spring

Do you need help cleaning your home this spring? Call Visiting Angels of Tulsa, OK! Our in-home caregivers can assist you with light housekeeping, meal planning and preparation, medication management, reliable transportation, and more.