Winter is around the corner. It is the coldest season of the year after autumn and before spring. During this season, daylight is short, the leaves fall, paths become more wet and slippery, and snow builds up over time.
Although winter might be the best season for some people to indulge in fun activities such as skiing and snowboarding in the mountains, it also creates perfect conditions for winter-related accidents like slips and falls. Unfortunately, senior adults are vulnerable to such accidents.
According to the CDC, millions of seniors fall each year, and one in five falls causes serious injuries such as fractured bones. Even though the season comes as no surprise, caregivers can make changes to ensure the safety of their senior loved ones in Summerville, Orangeburg, Santee, Summerton, Ridgeville, and St. Matthews.
Prevent Snow Buildup on Paved Surfaces
Even though snowfall is minimal in South Carolina, in some cases it can accumulate on sidewalks and driveways during winter. This can present serious mobility issues, especially for senior citizens in Orangeburg. While severity may vary, preventive measures can help seniors brave the elements all season long.
For most people, rock salt is the first option for preventing snow accumulation on their paved surfaces. While this method has proven effective in melting icy surfaces, it has some drawbacks. Rock salt, also known as halite, can damage asphalt and concrete surfaces.
However, there are more eco-friendly alternatives to get rid of icy water covering the pavements, such as:
- Wood ash: It can be strewn across the pavement to create traction. The potash in the ash also helps melt the ice.
- DIY Deicer: A homemade deicer is an excellent alternative for melting icy surfaces. The ingredients required to make the mixture include hot water, a few drops of dish soap, and rubbing alcohol.
- Sugar beet juice: This juice helps lower the freezing point of water.
Install or Repair Landscape Lighting
Beyond enhancing the property's curb appeal, keeping off unwanted animals, and security, outdoor lighting can come in handy during the winter in Santee and St. Matthews. They help illuminate areas that would otherwise be hard to navigate. With good lighting, seniors can quickly identify wet and slippery areas to avoid.
Caregivers should consider installing outdoor lighting or repairing any malfunctioning landscape lighting fixture for a senior loved one's safety.
Use Entrance Mats
The wetness around the doorstep during winter is a major slippery hazard. Entrance mats significantly maximize safety during the cold season in Summerton because they absorb moisture off the senior's shoes after being outdoors. To reduce the risk of falling, entrance mats should be placed on the entrance and exit of the property.
Install Downspout Extenders
A downspout is a pipe that connects to a gutter channel and runs vertically on a property. The bottom part bends out away from the property. A downspout extender helps channel the water to a more specific area. Other than preventing property damage, downspout extenders help avert water pooling around sidewalks that may put seniors in Ridgeville at risk of falling.
Help Seniors Avoid Slips and Falls
Despite the frigid temperatures, with proper precautions, senior loved ones can still indulge safely in fun activities throughout the winter season. Here are some safety tips:
- Seniors should wear well-insulated or slip-resistant shoes each time they go outside.
- They should take small steps and, if possible, use assistive devices such as walkers for extra traction and balance.
- Seniors should avoid walking on wet or slippery areas.
Caring for a senior is rewarding. It gives you a sense of responsibility and purpose. However, it can be physically and emotionally exhausting. If you need assistance, we are here for you. Senior Helpers Summerville is the premier provider of in-home senior care around Summerville, Orangeburg, Santee, Summerton, Ridgeville, and St. Matthews.
We specialize in caring for seniors living with Dementia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's. We can create a personalized care plan for your senior loved one that suits their needs and yours. Contact us today for more details.