Keeping Elderly Friends and Relatives Safe in Autumn
As the mornings feel crisper, leaves start to fall and the days become shorter, it’s important to check on elderly people, to check they are coping with the change in temperature and to ensure there are no health or safety hazards.
In this blog, we look at some of the ways you can keep safe elderly friends, family or neighbours this Autumn:
- Wet leaves can become dangerous slip hazards, so as well as keeping hallways and walkways clear of trip hazards, make sure that debris is not brought into the home by installing a sturdy doormat.
- Maintain a consistently warm temperature in the home and seal off any draught sources. Have a certified plumber service the central heating system to prevent leaks or other dangers and have fireplaces and chimneys swept annually to prevent chimney fires.
- With the central heating on, keeping hydrated is just as important in cooler weather so don’t forget to drink plenty of water. It helps to promote brain function, regulates body temperature and is essential to the function of vital internal organs.
- Avoid draughts by ensuring windows are in good condition and can be opened and closed easily. Elderly people should have access to fresh air and be able to keep out the cold.
- This time of year can be a varied climate – some days much colder than others, so make sure your wardrobe can adapt to any temperature.
- The NHS advises that vulnerable groups have a flu vaccine every year to prevent serious illness. The vaccine is free of charge to those aged 65 years and over – don’t forget to book it in around this time of year.
- As the days become shorter, have your eyesight checked by the optician and install strong lightbulbs in every room and hallway.
- Check the condition of all electrical appliances – especially the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors – and be extra careful using electric blankets. Keep space heaters away from flammable surfaces.
Finally, regular calls and visits are the best way to prevent loneliness and ill health so don’t forget to check in on your neighbour, friend or relative!
Other articles you may like
- How home care can support long-term health
In the world of healthcare, home care is often overlooked, yet it holds tremendous potential as a cornerstone for long-term health management. - CQC Inspections and Celebrating UK Care Week
Celebrating compassion with UK Care Week and understanding CQC inspections The Care Quality Commission (CQC) is central to the operation of care serviceContinue reading “CQC Inspections and Celebrating UK Care Week “ - Look after your loved one with home care
The month of February is often associated with the holiday that marks its midpoint – Valentine’s Day – and the extra day that marks its end in a Leap Year. In the spirit of these occasions, we’re delving into how compassion, companionship and connection are central to home care and the well-being of our community, and considering how home care can help make a difference in your loved one’s life. - How homecare can help beat January blues
As we all navigate the post-holiday season, many individuals experience a decline in mood commonly known as the “January blues.” - The importance of home care during the holiday season
The importance of home care during the holiday season New statistics from Age UK show just how difficult and lonely this Christmas willContinue reading “The importance of home care during the holiday season “ - Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday 2023
The weekend of November 11 marked the annual Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday memorial in the UK and Commonwealth. Birchwood Care Services joined the nation in honouring members of the armed forces who died in the line of duty during the First World War and beyond. - Protecting health and wellbeing in home care
Protecting health and wellbeing in home care At Birchwood Care Services, the health and wellbeing of our clients is at the forefront ofContinue reading “Protecting health and wellbeing in home care” - Celebrating Professional Care Workers Week 2023
The Care Workers Charity (CWC) is an important industry body with the objective of supporting current and former care workers. As part of this mission, the CWC is running its annual Professional Care Workers Awareness Week for the sixth year this month. - How care support can help find happiness later in life
Helping mature adults in the pursuit of joy Happiness is a funny thing. Like joy, it can be found and nurtured in manyContinue reading “How care support can help find happiness later in life”
