Winter is upon us, and with the onslaught of ice, snow, and other winter weather surprises, many seniors are left wondering about the most effective way to make winter car rides as safe and comfortable as possible. There are a few things that you and your senior can do to help make driving and road trip safer and more comfortable, especially during the winter. Take a look at a few basic things that we have put together that will you can do to help your senior have safer winter road trips, be it just to the store or to the other side of the country.
1. Day Driving
One of the most basic things seniors can do to make their car rides safer and more comfortable is to drive during the day. While most roads do have lights, driving during the day can be significantly easier. Daylight driving often results in less fatigue, both physically and mentally. Due to the increased vision, drivers tend to relax more during the day as they don't have to strain to see, they don't have to tense their muscles, and they can more easily navigate roads and traffic. That being said, winter weather, especially throughout the Chicago, Des Plaines, and Lake Forest areas, can exacerbate the challenges involved in driving, making it increasingly dangerous and uncomfortable, even during daylight hours. During storms and inclement weather, precautions should be taken, including pulling over if necessary, until the storm has passed and driving conditions improve.
2. Have a Supply Kit
Another way to make winter driving safer is to be sure to have a supply kit with you in case of an emergency or a need to pull over for a storm to pass. Supply kits may include items such as flashlights, extra batteries, a first aid kit, warm blankets, as well as an extra jacket, and gloves. It is also a good idea to have some non-perishable food and snack items, as well as extra water for drinking and hand sanitizer. Having a supply kit can make emergency road surprises easier to endure, as well as infinitely safer and more comfortable.
3. Take a Companion
In addition to day driving and supply kits, having a traveling companion can make any winter car ride safer, more comfortable, and of course, more fun. Having someone along for the ride offers not only the advantage of having someone with your senior should an emergency arise but also having someone to talk to and to share the trip with, which always makes a road trip more enjoyable.
Making Winter Car Rides Safer and More Comfortable for Your Senior
Winter weather can make driving a challenge even in the best of circumstances, and often times people find themselves wondering if there are ways to make car rides during the winter safer and more comfortable, especially for seniors. There are steps that you and your senior can take that will make winter car rides easier to participate in and enjoy. Day driving, having an ample supply kit, and taking a companion are some of the techniques your senior can employ to make winter driving safer and more comfortable.
In addition, Senior Helpers of Des Plaines offers tailored home care services ranging from companion care for seniors who need daily assistance to in-depth specialized care for those with chronic diseases. We help your senior to age in place, including when it comes to winter car rides and driving. Contact us to learn more about how we can help your senior age in place.