Winter Safety

We’ve already had a taste of winter weather, and there’s surely more to come. To help prepare, we have several tips to keep in mind during the chilly months ahead.

Here are a few tips to help be prepared for winter conditions:

• Keep leaves cleared, as they can become slick when wet and also hide trip hazards.
• Similarly, make arrangements for snow removal. Keep walkways clear and avoid icy or snowy paths by working with a professional snow removal service or neighborhood children seeking extra spending money. (Remember, as stated in our Service Agreement, SHC Caregivers are not permitted to shovel snow.)
• Spread salt to prevent slipping (and keep a sufficient supply on hand). It’s also helpful to carry a small supply of salt in your car or bag when you’re on the go.
• Ensure adequate lighting on walkways and driveways. Winter brings gray days and dark nights. Use a flashlight when needed.
• Keep an extra stock of necessities, such as food and medications. Follow weather forecasts and plan accordingly.
• Prepare your car. Winter conditions are tough on cars.
  • Replace worn-out windshield wipers.
  • Check tire pressure.
  • Keep an eye on fluid levels and inspect for weak belts and hoses.
  • Don’t let your gas run low.
  • Keep an ice scraper in your car for frosty windshields.
• Wear well-fitting shoes and boots with non-slip soles.
• Wear gloves and keep your hands free for balance and using railings.
• Allow extra time to reach your destinations. Walk slowly, carefully, and keep your eyes on the path ahead. If snow or sleet has fallen, be prepared to scrape your windows and expect slow driving conditions.

There’s no surefire way to prevent falling, but these easy-to-follow tips lessen the risk. Proper planning will help you stay ahead of winter conditions.

Protecting Senior Skin from Dry Winter Conditions

When we think about winter precautions, we often talk of preventing falls on ice and avoiding hypothermia, but sometimes forget about an issue that takes place both indoors and out – skincare.

Cold weather and winds take a toll on the skin’s moisture, causing itching, cracking and bleeding. The toasty air keeping us warm in our homes and living facilities also sucks moisture from the air and contributes to drying out skin.

Over time, skin becomes thinner, drier and more fragile, making seniors particularly susceptible to skin issues. Winter weather can also worsen common senior skin issues such as shingles and bruising, making them more prone to itchy skin and rashes.

Consider the following tips to help you and your elderly loved ones avoid dry skin.

• Moisturize. Using lotion often is the best way to protect skin. It’s especially effective after bathing, when skin is most absorbent. Seniors may require a heavier cream or ointment but should check the ingredients for allergens. Remember to use lip balm to avoid dry lips.
• Hydrate. Drinking lots of water isn’t just important in the summer. It helps keep cells moisturized from the inside.
• Bundle up. When going outdoors, cover as much skin as possible. Fingers and toes are especially susceptible to frostbite and windburn.
• Short and warm (not hot) showers. Too much time in hot water can sap natural moisture from the skin.
• Humidify. A humidifier adds moisture to dry, artificially-heated air.
• Sunscreen. Sunscreen is just as important on clear winter days as it is in the summer, especially if there is snow on the ground to reflect the sun’s rays.

Seniors may need special care to alleviate skin issues from the harsh winter. See a dermatologist if a skin condition becomes worse, doesn’t heal or you suspect another health issue may be present.

Source: SHC Blog

Get to Know…Danielle Hoff (HR/Care Operations Manager)

Danielle is the newest members to the SHC office team. She manages caregiver recruiting and retention, as well as general Human Resources assistance. She’s constantly seeking skilled and compassionate caregivers to join our best-of-the-best team. We’re thrilled to have her!

Fun Facts About Danielle:

• Hobbies include reading mystery novels or true crime.
• Loves spending time outdoors hiking and exploring new trails with her family. 
• Bucket list is to visit all the national parks in the US. 

Testimonial

I had two ladies that came to care for me, Nana [Neiosha] and Nina. Both of them were punctual. They were very helpful. I would recommend Seniors Home Care workers, if you need one. They were willing to play games, bake muffins, wash/dry clothes, fold, then they would put the clothes away in drawers or closet.
                Annette O.