This is the time of year when winter storms can come up fast and make conditions dangerous for seniors who are living alone. Extreme cold, snow, and other types of bad weather can knock out power, cause fires, and leave seniors who are living alone vulnerable.
If your mom or dad is living independently and you worry about them safely getting through a winter storm you should consider getting 24-hour home care. With 24-hour home care, your mom or dad will never be alone. No matter what kind of winter emergency hits, your mom or dad will have someone there who can help them get to safety, call for medical help, or call for assistance getting them to somewhere warm.
In addition to getting 24-hour home care for your mom or dad these things can also help keep your mom or dad safe in the event of a bad winter storm:
1. Have an Emergency Kit Ready
An emergency kit is essential for winter storms and all seniors should have one in their homes. It should include flashlights, extra batteries, and a portable phone charger. Add bottled water, non-perishable food, and any necessary medications that your mom or dad might need. Warm blankets, gloves, and hats should also be in the kit. A battery-powered radio is also useful for weather updates. This kit ensures your senior parent has the basics if they’re stuck at home.
2. Prepare the Home for Cold Weather
Winterizing the home can keep it safe and warm. Make sure windows and doors are sealed to block drafts. Have the furnace checked to ensure it’s working well before the storm. Keep extra fuel for space heaters if they’re safe to use. If the home uses gas or oil heat, a carbon monoxide detector is essential. Stock up on firewood if your senior parent has a fireplace for backup heat.
3. Plan for Power Outages
Power outages are common during winter storms. A home generator can keep critical devices running, like heaters and medical equipment. Make sure that your mom or dad’s care provider knows how to work the generator and leave instructions in an easy-to-find place.
If your mom or dad has a car, make sure it has gas and it’s in good running condition. Even if your mom or dad doesn’t drive any longer, the car can be used for heat and power in a power outage.
If a generator isn’t available, make sure that your mom or dad has plenty of warm clothing, blankets, and reusable hand and foot warmers. Hot water bottles are also a great way to help your mom or dad stay warm in a power outage. A rechargeable lantern or solar-powered lights can help if the power is out at night.
4. Arrange Snow Removal
Heavy snow and ice can make it hard for seniors to leave their homes. Arrange for a snow removal service to clear driveways and walkways. This prevents falls and ensures emergency services can reach the house if needed. Ice melt or sand can be used to improve traction on slippery surfaces. Your parent should also have sturdy, non-slip boots if they need to go outside.
5. Have a Communication Plan
Make sure your parent can stay in touch during a storm. Check that their phone is charged and that they know how to use it. Program emergency numbers, including family, neighbors, and local services, into their phones. If cell service is unreliable, a landline or two-way radio can be a backup. Regular check-ins during and after the storm can give you peace of mind and keep your parent safe.
If you or an aging loved one are considering 24-Hour Home Care in Fremont, NE, please contact the caring staff at Caretech today at (402) 697-5121
Caretech provides the best care services for seniors and families throughout Nebraska including Omaha, Lincoln, Bellevue, Grand Island, Kearney, Fremont, Norfolk, Hastings, Columbus, Papillon, North Platte, La Vista, Scottsbluff, South Sioux City, Beatrice, Lexington, Chalco, Gretna, Gering, York, and surrounding areas.
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