For many of us, autumn in Erie is the most beautiful time of the year. Think turning leaves, beautiful harvests, and that crisp, fall aroma that wafts through the air.

It's a wonderful time of year to enjoy indoors and out. This makes it a great time to do some preparation for the coming winter and to enjoy the beauty it brings. Below, we have come up with some autumn safety tips for your senior loved ones.

Autumn Safety Tips for Your Loved Ones

Flu Vaccination

Flu season is fast approaching. Many of us have other health concerns right now and the dangers of influenza are real. Help to limit your risk by taking advantage of the flu vaccine this year. Available at your doctor's office, pharmacies, and many other locations, often for free! 

Prepare for Heating Season

Soon the days will shorten and be cooler. So you'll want to be sure you're ready to turn on the heat safely. 

• Have Your Furnace Checked

It's a miserable feeling to notice the house getting colder and realize your furnace has failed. Save yourself from an emergency repair call and schedule an annual cleaning and maintenance checkup. Many companies from Erie to Crawford County and everywhere in-between are happy to provide this service, and some even offer senior discounts for it. A well-maintained furnace can save you money and keep you warmer by running more efficiently. More importantly, a properly running furnace can save your life, preventing dangerous carbon monoxide from building up in your home. 

• Replace Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detector Batteries

Along with proper furnace maintenance comes ensuring your safety detectors are running properly. Some people like to replace the batteries every fall, others every spring. But most people link the battery replacement schedule to daylight savings time. However you plan for it, it's crucial to have working detectors, and fall is a great time to check them. 

• Don't Be Afraid to Use the Heat

Many seniors, especially those on fixed or limited incomes, don't like to run the heat very much to save on heating bills. Keeping the house a little cooler is fine but you should still be comfortable. Running your furnace is generally less expensive than using space heaters. Space heaters can also be very dangerous if used incorrectly. Ensure any space heaters have plenty of clear space in front of them, are on a stable surface, so they can't fall over, and that they have an automatic shutoff in case you forget that they're running or can't hear them. If you need help with your heating bill, there are many agencies that can help and special programs designed to help seniors stay safely warm through the winter. 

Clear Away Leaves for Safety

Meadville and many other towns in our area have beautiful, tree-lined neighborhoods. But wet leaves can be incredibly slippery, so make sure they're cleared from your sidewalks and walkways. Piled-up leaves can also make it difficult to see the edges of steps and sidewalks, making it easier to trip or fall. If you're not up to doing it, be sure to ask for help so you and those who visit you will have a safe path to travel.

Prepare for Cold and Flu Season

The best way to combat winter colds besides not getting one is to be ready for when you do. Stock your medicine cabinet with cough drops or syrup, pain relievers, and any other medication you and your doctor agree is appropriate for you to take if you have a cold. Make sure you also have plenty of tissues and cleaning supplies, too! It's also not a bad idea to keep plenty of soup and tea bags in the cupboards. So you'll have something soothing to eat and drink if you're not feeling well.

Prepare for Cold Weather

Don't let that first snow take you by surprise! Check that you have some basic winter supplies such as a snow shovel, road salt, or ice melt, and get out your winter clothing. Remember that layers are the best way to stay warm in any cool weather. If you drive, make sure your car has winter-grade oil. Keep your gas tank at least half full, and make sure you keep a snow scraper, an extra pair of gloves, and a blanket in the car just in case.

Now that you've gotten everything ready, go out and enjoy autumn near beautiful Lake Erie! Take a walk in the glorious fall color, have some apple cider and enjoy all that the season has to offer. Need some help getting ready for fall, or any other assistance? Contact us today, we're here to help from companionship and errands to around-the-clock care at home.