Seniors living in their own Massachusetts homes will need to tackle some winterizing tasks that make the area safer to traverse. In many cases, seniors are perfectly capable of handling these tasks alone and getting the job completed well. There are a couple of things. However, winterizing tasks really should be handled by a professional service. It can be difficult to decide which chores stay and which ones go, but people can't accomplish everything on their own forever.
Really, people of any age should rely on professionals for tough tasks, whether they cannot attempt them due to health reasons or simply because they do not have the time.
3 Winterizing Tasks for Seniors From Senior Helpers Westford
1. Salting Your Porch
Adding a bit of road salt to the porch can help to thaw the ice and keep it from being so slippery. Seniors needing to get in and out of their homes often should keep a bag of salt like this nearby and scoop out a cup to pour when the ice starts to accumulate. This is a pretty simple task that can be done alone, as long as the homeowner is taking their time, going slow, and watching their step as they do it.
2. Changing Smoke Detector Batteries
It might not seem winter-related, but changing out smoke detector batteries really should be handled before winter hits. The cold season is when more people are lighting fires, using heaters, keeping heating blankets on the bed, and so on. The potential fire hazards are at an all-time high and need to be taken seriously. Anyone able to step on a small ladder and reach the smoke detector to change out the batteries can handle this task alone. Or, they can ask a family member or even a neighbor to help if necessary.
3. Caulking and Sealing Windows and Doors
Cracks in windows and doors can bring in cold air from the outside. It's wise to purchase some caulk from the hardware store and walk around the house to check for any cracks or missing weather strips. A quick squeeze of the bottle along the side of the door or window can help to seal it and prevent a draft.
4. Shoveling the Driveway
Shoveling can actually be hard on the heart. Combine the cold weather that restricts blood flow with the strenuous task of shoveling, and it can lead to serious consequences. This is one task that's best left to the professionals. Many come equipped with snow blowers that make the job far easier to accomplish and help avoid some of the potential consequences of hours spent shoveling by hand. Anyone over the age of 45 should really start hiring help for this winter chore.
5. Furnace Maintenance
It's also important to have the furnace checked before it needs to be turned on for the first time that year. Most people aren't aware of what to look for to ensure the furnace is up to date and working well, so it's always best to leave this to the professionals. They can perform an assessment, get any dust and debris cleaned out, and ensure the furnace is safe to use and heat the home come winter.
Connect With Seniors Helpers Westford for Extra Assistance
It's perfectly acceptable to allow a caregiver or helper to assist with difficult winterizing tasks. Whether you simply feel under the weather that day or you realize you're having a hard time lately getting all of your chores completed, in-home care services can be a major help. Connect with Seniors Helpers of Westford, Concord, Lowell, or Tewksbury to discuss possible solutions. We provide a personalized approach so you can receive the precise type of assistance and care you require. Contact us today.