Prepare for Fall by Preventing Falls
When autumn rolls around in North Carolina, temperatures drop. If proper preparation is not taken, this can pose a challenge for elders. Moisture creates slippery walking conditions, increasing the chances of a fall, which is extremely dangerous for older adults.
When the chilly nights and breezy mornings roll in, it is vital to a senior’s health to be properly prepared. When you are the one responsible for the wellness of your loved one, you want to feel confident that you’ve done all you can to keep them safe and healthy. We’ve got you covered with a few tips to make sure autumn comes without any falls!
Watch Out for Fallen Leaves
As the leaves go through a beautiful change, so does the landscape. Autumn in many different areas can present a safety hazard due to fallen leaves. When wet, often times they can be slippery or hide dangerous obstacles. It is important to remove these piles on a regular basis over the course of the season. Some areas to keep in mind for clearing include: porches, patios, sidewalks and other key walkways.
Managing Joint Discomfort in Seniors
While North Carolina may not go through the coldest climate change during Autumn, any drop in barometric pressure can result in joint discomfort. Among the most common conditions, arthritis can get worse as the weather changes—even in balmy Asheville.
The best thing you can do to combat these conditions is layering up your loved ones with warm clothes, paying special attention to the head, hands, and feet as they lose the most heat.
Maintaining a constant indoor temperature will support older adults as well.
What Else Can I Do To Minimize Falls?
Precautions to prevent falls are simple, but just as easily neglected. Sadly, we can’t always count on our loved ones to remember these basic measures, so it’s up to us to take extra steps:
- Ensuring the temperature inside is at a comfortable level so seniors may wear lighter clothes that do not limit mobility.
- Maintaining vitamin levels to make up for decreased outdoor activity. As the seasons change, we need to change with them to ensure we continue to eat a healthy diet.
- Attending to hydration and nutrition needs.
- Having a full night’s sleep each night so the mind is clear.
- Regular exercise can help with strength and perception.
- Minimizing tripping hazards around living areas to allow for a clear walk area.
- Utilizing non-skid boots and proper footwear with plenty of traction can also help reduce the chances for elder slips and falls in wet weather.
Here’s What to Do If You Need Help
If this all hits you as a bit overwhelming at first glance, that’s completely normal. For some family members, caring for a loved one who can’t manage themselves on their own is a labor of love.
But sometimes you just have too much on your plate and that’s okay. Visiting Angels is here to help. We’ll help you get started and identify the best ways to make sure your loved one gets all the help they need through the colder months. Call us at 828-665-3944 to start the conversation... there’s no charge for your complimentary assessment!