As General Manager of Queensview Retirement Community, and over 25 years of experience, I know that more of us are needing to make smart retirement decisions and we’re happy to help. Email me, Dawn Lyons, your inquiries on retirement living: [email protected]
Preparing for the unique challenges of wintertime weather.
Chilling temperatures and treacherous winter conditions can terrorize our seniors and their caregivers during the winter months.
Here are a few things to keep in mind to help keep seniors safe during the frigid season ahead.
Ice and snow-Sidewalks slick with ice and snow pose a serious falling hazard for an elderly person. Make sure that the porch, driveway, sidewalk, etc. of the senior has been thoroughly cleaned and a layer of sand and salt has been applied. If necessary hire an outside service to do the heavy lifting. Make sure that their footwear is well fitting, and comfortable, and that their cane or walker has new winter pick or treads.
Dress for Warmth-Cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia — a condition where the body temperature dips too low. Wearing layers will help regulate body temperature both inside and out. If you are going outside, wear warm socks, a heavy coat, a warm hat, gloves and a scarf. In very cold temperatures, cover all exposed skin. Use a scarf to cover your mouth and protect your lungs.
Disaster kit-Winter storms can be fierce enough to knock down power lines and forcibly confine seniors to their homes. It is essential to make sure a senior is equipped with a disaster kit to help them get through these times. Stock up the cupboard with a week’s supply of non-perishable food and drinking water. Get your senior a hand-operated can opener to use during power outages. Make sure there is a flashlight in the home with back up batteries.
Fill prescriptions of critical medications-Don’t let important meds run low during the winter. Switch your senior’s prescriptions to a local pharmacy that makes home deliveries or sign up with a mail order pharmacy so no one has to venture out in bad weather to pick up medications.
For caregivers- If you are a caregiver, please remember to check on your loved one frequently. Offer to shop for her or him and check on medications when the weather is very cold and snowy. Don’t wait for emergencies to develop a system to communicate. Everyone living alone should develop a "buddy system."
Check the Car-Driving during the winter can be hazardous for anyone. But it is especially dangerous for older people. Have your car serviced before wintertime hits. Checking things like the oil, tires, battery and wipers can make a big difference on winter roads. Also make sure your CAA membership is up-to-date in case of emergencies.
Keep Your Spirits High -At Queensview Retirement Community we understand how wintertime can restrict activities and opportunities to mingle with others. Avoid winter isolation and inquire about our “Winter Stay” program. Our suites are fully furnished, in the main building, ready and waiting for you to arrive. Why not visit us, or call us for details.
VISIT, LIVE IT, LOVE IT
A visit, or a lunch are good ways to experience the community. Even better, try an overnight stay as this will enable you to connect with residents and talk with them about their experiences. Queensview Retirement Community offers independent, enhanced, short term and recuperative stays. We provide complimentary consultations, home visits and personalized orientations. We are here for you, please call us at 519 442 5621.
Queensview Retirement Community, 70 King Edward Street, Paris , Ontario
Queensviewrc.ca
