The winter can be very difficult and dangerous for seniors living alone. It is important to make sure the house is prepared for winter storms and possible loss of power. This is even more important for senior living on the South Shore. Seniors living in Hull, Hingham, Cohasset, Scituate, Marshfield, Duxbury and Plymouth are even more susceptible to storm issues like road closures, power outages and storm damage. Make sure you follow some of the suggestions below to prepare for winter.
- Make sure there are storm windows installed. Make sure all windows are fully closed and latched.
- Install an emergency generator for any power outages. If that is not an option have an emergency plan in place to relocate your loved one if the power is out and there is not heat or way to keep food from spoiling.
- Make sure the home has emergency food supplies and plenty of bottled water.
- Make sure the fireplace and chimney have been professionally cleaned prior to winter. Also, make sure all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have new batteries and test that they are fully operational.
- Make sure the gutters have been cleaned from any fall leaves and debris to avoid ice dams.
- Make arrangements for snow and ice removal for your loved on so caregivers and visitors and emergency personnel can easily access the home.
- Make sure your keep an eye on your loved one for any wintertime depression. It is common for seniors to become more isolated in the winter as their social interaction decreases. Make sure they have the companionship and support they need during these critical months.
- You need to make sure your senior gets plenty of Vitamin D during the winter as well. Plenty of milk, grains and specific seafood to keep them healthy as they will be getting less sun during the winter months.
