For some people, the shortened daylight hours in the winter months present some unique challenges. Some seniors prefer to drive only during daylight hours. For these people, the early sunsets in the winter months mean they may have to get a little creative to maintain an active social life. With a little ingenuity, it's possible to make the right adjustments, so people can remain vibrant and active no matter the season.
Virtual Storytime With the Grandkids
Thanks to Google Duo and the iPhone FaceTime apps, it's easier than ever to connect face-to-face with people online. For those with grandchildren, smartphone apps allow them to easily spend time with their grandkids, whether they're across town or the country.
Having a virtual storytime is as easy as checking out a few children's books from the local library, then connecting for a storytime just before a grandchild's bedtime. It's an easy way to connect with others during the evening hours, and it's also a great feeling to know one is influential in helping a child develop a lifelong love of exploring the world through books.
Virtual Meetings With a Friend
Some seniors may have a friend that also prefers not to drive during the evening hours. Rather than becoming disconnected during the winter, set up a virtual meeting where the two parties can get together during the evening and chat over a cup of cocoa, hot tea, or decaffeinated coffee. It's surprising how making a pointed effort to connect with someone on a weekly or biweekly basis can help people stay connected within their circle of friends.
Virtual Exercise
For those whose doctor has cleared them for exercise, a virtual exercise session with other seniors may be feasible. Contact the local senior center or other community resources to see if they offer any online senior exercise classes during the evening. If one's senior center offers virtual exercise classes earlier in the day, consider asking them to hold one in the evening. After all, many seniors prefer to avoid nighttime driving and are likely to be interested in an activity that can be performed during the evening hours.
Adopt a Furever Friend
Many dogs and cats would like nothing more than to provide companionship to a loving person. Adopting an older pet has a two-fold benefit. Older animals are usually calmer and more obedient, and most of them like nothing more than to snuggle with their favorite person during the cold winter months.
Sign Up for Meal Preparation Services
Some home care services offer in-home meal preparation services. The benefits associated with this are three-fold. Not only will a senior receive a hot, nutritious dinner every evening, but they'll also receive a daily check-in from someone experienced in senior care, and they'll be able to have a conversation with someone in their own home every evening.
Enlist the Aid of a Driver
More and more programs are available for seniors that enable them to fully participate in life. For those who have an evening obligation, there are home care organizations that include transportation services as part of their care. This means seniors can still stay active socially, without having to compromise their safety by driving in less-than-ideal conditions.
Senior Helpers of Bolingbrook
For those looking for assistance in the care of seniors in Bolingbrook or the surrounding areas of Crest Hill, Joliet, Lockport, Romeoville, Downers Grove, Woodridge, or Darien, we can help. Senior Helpers of Bolingbrook creates personalized care plans for you or your loved one. For more information on all our senior services, including transportation support, please contact us.