Spring Cleaning Tasks That Enhance Safety
Spring is in the air in the Oklahoma City area. The season also presents a great opportunity to tidy and refresh our spaces. For seniors, cleaning goes beyond making their home look good. It’s also an essential safety measure.
Seasonal Chores That Caregivers Can Assist With
Older adults often need help with cleaning tasks due to health conditions or mobility issues. As their family member or caregiver, here are a few spring chores you can assist with that will help keep the senior safe and secure while aging in place in Yukon.
Check Emergency Detectors
According to the National Fire Protection Association, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should have their batteries replaced at least once a year. It’s also a good idea to dust them with a dry cloth and check that they’re working by pressing the test button. This task generally requires using a step-ladder, so it’s often easier and safer for the caregiver to complete than seniors themselves.
Outdoor Maintenance
Warmer weather gives us the chance to clean up outdoor spaces, like porches, patios, and gutters. Clear these areas of leaves and debris, and check to make sure that lighting is sufficient outside of the home. It’s easy for older people to miss a step without a clearly lit path.
Deep Clean Vents
During the cold winter months, dust particles build up in furnaces and other vents around the home. Be sure to replace the furnace filter and clean the area around the unit. This is also a good time to deep clean an aging individual’s dryer with a vacuum hose attachment to collect potentially flammable lint and dust in areas such as fans and baseboards. Removing these allergens is especially important for older adults with respiratory conditions like COPD.
Bathroom Enhancements
Perhaps it has been a while since the senior’s bathroom was updated. Small safety modifications can make a big difference – for instance, replacing worn bathroom mats and installing grab bars. You can also reduce the risk of accidents by ensuring older people’s toiletries are stored in an easily accessible place. To avoid burns and skin irritation while bathing, double-check that their water heater isn’t set too high, as well.
Review Emergency Plans
You can never be too prepared for an emergency, particularly during tornado season in Oklahoma. Take the time to sit down with your client or older loved one. Review their emergency contact list, change flashlight batteries, and go over their tornado safety plan. Keep their pantry stocked with non-perishable food and bottled water in case of a power outage, and make sure they have all necessary medications and devices on hand.
Visiting Angels Yukon Can Help Keep Your Space Tidy
At Visiting Angels Yukon, our experienced caregivers can help with light housekeeping tasks, including dusting, vacuuming, and removing hazards around the home to help the senior stay safe and secure all year long. If you could use additional support with your aging loved one this spring season, get in touch with us today to schedule a free consultation!
Send us a message or call 405-350-6700 to learn more about our home care services.