Key Takeaways:

  • Get vaccinated against the flu and take precautions to reduce your risk of catching it.
  • Prepare your home for winter by cleaning your fireplace, checking your smoke detector, and ensuring your roof is in good condition.
  • Seniors should take extra precautions to stay warm during colder months, and make sure to clear leaves from their yard to reduce the risk of falls.
T

he fall season is upon us, and that means that winter will be here before we know it.

Some of the best ways to prepare for the colder months is by taking care of your home and making sure that everyone around you has all of the supplies they need to be comfortable during these colder months.

This article will go over some important tasks that you should complete this fall so that when winter arrives you are prepared for it!

Reduce the risk of influenza.

Autumn is almost here, which means that it's time to get ready for flu season.

Whether you're an aging adult or a caregiver for one, it's important to take precautions. The flu can be especially dangerous for aging adults because their immune systems are weaker and they may be less able to fight off the virus.

As you prepare for the fall season and cooler temperatures, be sure to follow these tips so that you can reduce your risks of influenza:

  • Get vaccinated—it's never too late!
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Stay home if you get sick.

Check your smoke detector.

We know what you're thinking: "I just bought this thing last year!" But did you know that smoke detectors need to be replaced every 10 years?

That's because they contain a small amount of radioactive material (called Americium-241) that decays over time. You can test your detector by setting it off yourself, or by calling in professional help—either way, it's important to make sure that your device is still working.

Clean your fireplace.

The last thing you want to do during the fall is clean, but it's important to clean your fireplace and chimney in preparation for winter. Make sure there is nothing blocking the flue and that your fireplace has been cleaned out of any debris from summer activities, like ashes or leaves.

Reduce fire risk.

When temperatures fall, it’s common for people to use space heaters or fireplaces in an attempt to warm up their homes. Seniors should ensure that flammable objects are kept far away from these types of appliances.

It's also important to inspect fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and other emergency equipment regularly.

Keep warm.

As the days grow shorter and temperatures become colder, seniors must take measures to protect themselves from frigid weather.

In fact, the National Institutes of Health reports that hypothermia can develop rather quickly after being exposed to relatively mild cold temperatures. Seniors should be very cautious about going outside during winter months—and when they do go out it’s important for them to dress in layers of loose-fitting clothing.

Clear the leaves.

The best way to keep your aging loved one safe as the weather cools is to make sure they don't have any loose leaves in their yard.

  • Don't let leaves pile up. This can become a fire hazard, and if the wind blows them over, they can be hazardous for someone with mobility issues.
  • Don't rake leaves into the street. If you don't have a compost bin or yard waste collection service near you, bag them up and take them somewhere that does allow leaf recycling.

Get the roof checked out.

Roof damage can be a serious safety hazard, so it's important to get your roof checked out if you suspect any problems. If the roof needs repairs, the cost may be covered by insurance. If you're not sure whether or not your home is insured for this type of damage and need to get a new roof installed, talk with an insurance agent about what options are available.

Fall is a great time to prepare for winter and make sure you are ready for a safe and healthy season.

In the fall, there are many things you can do to prepare for winter. Check smoke detectors, clear leaves from gutters and make sure your windows are caulked—these tips should keep you safe and healthy during this season!

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Sep 4, 2022
 in 
Caregiving
 category
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