Winter Safety Tips for Older Adults on the California Central Coast

In home assistance can help your senior loved one on the California Central Coast stay safe and healthy during the winter

Winter is almost here - and although wintertime in California is not like in the other parts of the United States, the weather will get cooler and we can expect more frequent rainfall. Just like snow and ice, rain and windy weather can also increase the risk of falls in older adults, making them more prone to sustaining an injury, such as a broken bone or hip fracture. If you provide in home assistance for a loved one on the Central Coast, these simple tips can help you keep Mom or Dad safer and healthier during the winter months.

Regularly Inform Your Loved One About Weather Conditions

Though the Central Coast region may be short on snow, the temperatures can get lower during the winter and rain can cause sidewalks, driveways and patios to become very slippery. It is a good idea to inform your loved one what the weather conditions will be like every time they plan to leave the house. This is especially important if they lead a more active lifestyle and go out frequently. When you have the time, consider accompanying them on their walks.  

Don’t Forget to Bundle Up

Older adults require more insulation to protect themselves from low temperatures. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, this is because most seniors have a slower metabolism. Though winter temperatures in California are mild in comparison to other parts of the country, it doesn’t mean Mom or Dad shouldn’t dress warmly, especially when going out to run an errand or meet with someone. Remind your loved one to wear extra layers of clothing, a hat or a cap, and even a raincoat if the forecast shows there will be rain.

Provide Vitamin and Supplement Reminders

As older adults are more prone to falling during the winter, one of the best ways to practice winter safety is to help them keep their bones strong and healthy. It is fairly simple - remind your loved one to take their vitamins and supplements every time you come over to provide in home assistance. On those days you don’t get to visit, make sure to remind them over the phone.

Create an Emergency Plan

Even with every precaution taken, seniors can still fall and gravely injure themselves. For this reason, it might be a good idea to develop several emergency plans for every possible scenario you can think of. If your loved one requires more in home assistance than you can provide, feel free to get in touch with local home care providers like Visiting Angels Central Coast. Our introductory meeting includes a free fall prevention analysis.

Practicing these proper precautions will enable you to alleviate most safety issues during the winter. If you could use some additional in home assistance when providing care for Mom or Dad in Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, Marina and throughout the Central Coast region of California, call Visiting Angels Central Coast office today. We are here for you!