Weather Proofing Your Home this Fall

The winter months are approaching. With them unfortunately, can come an increased risk of illness and unexpected falls due to wetness, snow, and ice. Not to mention the general discomfort that a senior can experience as a result of the seasons cooler temperatures. Luckily, there are preventative measures that can be taken before the cold weather hits, that can reduce the likelihood of such events. 

A caregiver can offer a helping hand in order to see that your loved one’s home is set up for success going into the winter months. This level of senior care can provide you and your loved one the comfort of knowing someone trusted is there to help see that their home environment is safe and comfortable for your loved one. 

Here are some preventative and ongoing precautions that your senior caregiver can assist with, during and in advance of the winter months ahead:

Thermostat monitoring
It sounds simple but when monitoring the temperature and making sure the thermostat is functioning properly is a simple but crucial factor in keeping your loved one warm and healthy this winter. Hypothermia can be a dangerous risk for seniors, but is generally avoidable. Your caregiver can help ensure that the thermostat is set to a comfortable heat setting as temperatures fluctuate. Consistent heat monitoring is critical to keeping your senior as comfortable, healthy and safe as possible this winter. 

Make sure outside amenities are in order 
Before the temperature drops, make sure the gutters are clear of leaves and debris to avoid blocks and leaks. You’ll also want to make sure all outdoor garden hoses are disconnected from the water valve.  In the event the temperature drops below freezing, having the hoses disconnected will reduce some of the risk factors that could cause the pipes to freeze. It’s also a good idea to take a moment to check out any trees near the perimeter of the house. If any branches look like they could snap off or break in the event of a storm, you should look into having them removed immediately.

Handling gaps that cause drafts 
Ideally any window or door gaps should be sealed. This will not only keep the inside of the house warmer, but save on energy costs too. For smaller drafts, or those in need of a lower cost solution, simply placing a draft guard or draft stopper across the bottom of a drafty door can offer relief. This option can be purchased for relatively cheap (and can also be a fun knitting project for those so inclined). 

Stock up on water/non-perishable foods
When unexpected snow or ice hits, leaving the house can be an unpleasant and potentially dangerous chore. Stock up with plenty of water and non-perishable foods in case of a bad winter weather event. Even if the extra stock doesn’t end up being used in an emergency situation, the peace of mind it will give you and your senior is reason enough to take this on. 

Have a plan in place for slick leaves, snow and ice
Stocking up on water and food is one way to plan for inclement weather, but it’s not the only precaution we should take. Prevent slipping by making sure to have a shovel handy to clear steps and walkways if it snows. A leaf blower is helpful when dealing with wet leaves, but it is good to wait until they dry as they are easier to blow away when not wet. It’s also a good idea to have sand or some other non-slip product around to put down on driveways, walking paths, and steps, if the ground gets icy. Take these measures to keep not only your senior safe, but also those that may come to visit or make deliveries to the home.