Getting ready for the winter weather
The winter months are nearly upon us and as the weather gets colder, Keeping warm and safe becomes increasingly important for our seniors. If you have a loved one that is elderly and lives alone, helping them stay safe is very important for their health and well-being. This article provides winter home safety tips for the elderly to stay safe and warm during the winter months.
Heating and radiators
Check that the heating system is working properly so that the radiators are giving off enough heat and that there is enough hot water. Check that the house is well heated, especially if you have an elderly relative living alone. Make sure that the temperature is set between 18 and 21 degrees Celsius to help them to keep warm in the winter.
If you notice any problems with the heating, take immediate action to rectify it. Heaters that burn gas, coal or wood can give off poisonous carbon monoxide fumes if they are not working properly. You may need to provide other heat sources like space heaters if there is a risk the house is not kept warm enough. Remember to check pipes to prevent water leaks and possible pipe freezing issues.
Smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detectors
It is important that you check smoke alarm detectors, whether they are battery powered or mains powered, for your elderly relatives monthly. It is vital to have an alarm on each floor of every home. Have them fixed immediately if they are broken. There are specialist smoke alarms for those who have hearing problems or vision difficulties. Discuss escape routes with your loved ones too.
Make sure gas appliances are safe by taking steps to protect from the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire. Carbon monoxide is known as a ‘silent killer’ because you cannot see, taste or smell it. Install carbon monoxide detectors in every room where there is a gas appliance and test monthly. The batteries usually last around five years.
Windows and doors
Make sure that windows and doors are not broken or faulty. Extreme cold from winter storms can cause draughts which may cause your elderly relative to become ill. The checks can also ensure that you have enough security measures fitted to avoid burglar attempts.
Outdoor winter safety
The extremely cold weather of winter months can be very dangerous for the elderly. Water and ice makes pavements slippery and dangerous to walk on. Snow can make it difficult for them to see where they are going. Reduce the risk by making sure that pathways are clear of moss and other debris so they can get home safely.
Warm clothing
Make sure your loved one has plenty of warm clothing for both inside and when they go outside to help them keep warm. Make sure your elderly relative has a winter coat that is large enough for them to wear several layers of clothes under it for extra warmth. It is important that the coat is waterproof and that it has a hood so that if it rains, they will be protected.
Keeping in contact
It is important to make sure there is a phone in a few rooms throughout the house so older adults can let you know if they need help. Make sure that they know how to use the phone, giving easy access to a few key contact numbers with clear speed dial buttons.
Getting caring help
Household and Domestic Help
We provide domestic help and house cleaning services in Windsor, Maidenhead and surrounding areas. Our domestic cleaning services standards are as high as our standards of care. We are here to help with not only cleaning services, but shopping of all types, meal preparation and cooking, laundry and ironing, and to help prepare your home for winter.
Live In Care
Our Live In Care residential service means our clients receive the personal care they need in their local community and can stay independent at home. With a trained, professional and respectful Live In Care worker, clients get support with anything and everything they need. Including personal hygiene and household tasks including winter preparation and of course companionship.
The highly trained care worker will be carefully matched to the person receiving care. We know that delivering Live In Care in Windsor, Maidenhead and beyond can be very rewarding since, as the professional relationship builds, very close bonds are often forged between carers and their clients. This brings great levels of trust and peace of mind.
Do we serve your area?
Areas we serve are Windsor, Old Windsor, Ascot and surrounding areas including Bray, Datchet, Dorney, Englefield Green, Eton, Eton Wick, Great Park, Winkfield and Windsor.
We are a care company with a heart and offer care at home to many people in our local area, granting peace of mind for loved ones. Unlike many providers, we never use care agency staff. Instead, our dedicated team of carers are robustly recruited, trained and developed in-house, by our Management Team.
