Winter is well and truly here and it is only set to become more cold and wet. Winter can pose many dangers for the older person, as this is the most common time of year to become ill or to suffer an injury due to the cold and damp. Using an elderly health care service in the home can greatly reduce these risks and keep your loved one safe. Below we share some advice on how to keep your elderly relative safe this winter and outline the benefits of home health care.
Beat those winter illnesses
Many of us will get a winter cold or bug but for elderly people they are more than just an unpleasant nuisance, they are a real risk. A home health care service can help to monitor your elderly relative and encourage them to have the flu jab. They can cook meals and ensure that there is plenty of food in the fridge when they have a cold, and can go out food shopping when it is icy underfoot.
Protection against the damp and cold
Simple things such as keeping warm and dry can help protect an elderly person from becoming ill this winter. A home health care service can ensure that the heating is on and set to the right temperature. They can check that the older person is comfortable and that if any problems are encountered then they can liaise with family and other services.
Drink plenty of fluids
It is important for older people to stay well hydrated in the winter months. As the weather is cold, it is wrongly assumed that we do not need to drink as many fluids. Dehydration in the elderly can lead to confusion, constipation and organ failure. It is a serious condition that can lead to hospital admission. Older people may not feel thirsty and will need encouragement to drink. This is when an elderly health care service can monitor fluid intake and encourage fluids throughout the day.
If you are currently looking for care for the elderly living at home then we can help you. We provide home care services for the elderly that range from anywhere between a few hours to 24 hours every day. Please do get in touch with us today to find out more.
