Keeping Seniors Safe During Unexpected Weather

Regardless of the place one lives, bad weather is bound to occur at some point. The good news is that there are many things you can do to deal with unexpected weather. Below is a list of tips that will help seniors stay safe when the weather is inclement:

What Seniors Can Do To Prepare For A Power Outage

Power outages can occur due to a hurricane, flood or winter storm. Here is a list of tips you can do to prepare for a possible power outage:

Supply The Phone Numbers
Seniors should have all of the phone numbers to utility companies, including gas, power and water. You should also supply seniors with the numbers to the fire department, doctor and home health care provider. It is important that seniors be able to access these numbers quickly.

Give Seniors The Necessary Supplies
There are a number of things seniors will need in the event of a power outage. This includes things such as flashlights, batteries, battery-powered flashlights, non-perishable food items, warm blankets, several layers of clothing and a hat. Additionally, if your loved one has an essential medical device, then you should let your utility company know. This can put your loved one on the priority list in the event of a power outage.

Safe Driving Tips For Seniors To Prepare For In Bad Weather

People who are over the age of 65 are already more likely to be involved in an accident. Inclement weather increases the risk of an accident. Below is a list of tips for safely driving when the weather is inclement:

Have Your Car Winterized
It will be a lot easier and safer to drive in inclement weather if the car is in good shape. The tires, windshield wipers and an antifreeze should be checked.

Stock The Car With The Necessary Supplies
Seniors should have a cell phone with them when they are driving. Other supplies seniors need include include blankets, first aid kit, booster cables, warm blankets, containers of water, dried food, shovel and flashlight. It is best to avoid wet and icy roads if possible.

Slippery Surface Safety
Falls are one of the top causes of injuries in senior citizens. A fall can lead to head trauma, broken bones and death. Slippery surfaces caused by inclement weather can increase the risk of a fall. Wearing boots with non-skid soles can decrease the risk of a fall. Additionally, if it has snowed outside, then the walkways will need to be shoveled.

Taking the proper precautions can prevent a serious injury from occurring. If you worry about your senior loved one when those nasty wind or thunderstorm are in the Las Vegas area. Our staff at Visiting Angels can help with our home care service. Contact us today!

How Seniors Can Remain Active And Social

Staying active has many benefits for seniors. It helps keep joints limber, prevent depression and promote general overall health. Social activity is just as important. It helps cultivate a sense of well-being and stave off loneliness. Of course, it isn't always easy for seniors to stay active and socially connected. Here are some ideas from our Las Vegas caregivers to help keep active in your golden years.

Adopt a Hobby

Hobbies are not only a great way to stay active in the home, but they allow people to connect with like-minded individuals. Hobbies can be anything from quilting to flying radio control helicopters. The idea is to find something enjoyable and find other people who like it. These days, it is easy to go online and find local hobby groups for seniors.

Find a Community Center

There are lots of great organizations that offer activities for seniors. These include senior centers, the Y and even local universities. Individuals can use these community centers to take classes, meet new people and get safe access to fitness equipment.

Visit a Museum

Museums are perfect for seniors of varying mobility. They tend to have wheelchair accessibility, are quiet and offer many subjects to appreciate. Art museums will also often have events like cocktail parties, art classes and musical performances that seniors can enjoy.

Join a Faith-Based Group or Organization

Religious faith brings people together, which makes it a wonderful way for seniors to connect socially. Churches, synagogues, temples and even community centers have opportunities for faith-based socializing, praying, volunteering and much more. Seniors of all faiths can find a spiritual group to occupy time and make new friends.

Get Outside

The outdoors provides myriad opportunities for seniors to stay active. They don't have to hike the Appalachian Trail to get a little exercise. They can go to a local park, take up bird watching, walk around the neighborhood, enjoy a nice swim or keep a small garden in their own backyards.

Unfortunately, many seniors do not enjoy the independence it takes to do things on their own. However, they can get the help they need to stay active, healthy and social right in their own homes. Senior care services like Las Vegas' Visiting Angels provide help with hygiene, cleaning, meal preparation and dressing. Go to Visiting Angels today to learn more about how seniors can get help at home.