Happy autumn! This third season of the year is known as the “season of change.” The weather is growing cooler, the days shorter and the air crisper. Though holidays, fairs and glorious fall colors give us plenty to look forward to, this is also a time when we need to take extra care.
This list of autumn safety tips for seniors is a good resource for those concerned about any older adults in their life, especially at this time when failing light, wet pavements and falling leaves increase the chances of accidents occurring outdoors. The colder weather can also be a catalyst for colds, flus and arthritic aches and pains, meaning it helps to rug up indoors as well.
So, as we adjust to the changes of autumn, this is an ideal time to check in on your loved ones who are aging in place to ensure their safety and well-being over the coming months. The following checklist will help you prepare yourself – and them – for the season.
Staying Warm and Safe at Home
- Schedule pre-winter heating maintenance. Before you crank up the heat, schedule regular maintenance for heating systems to confirm they’re in good working order. If your loved one’s home includes a fireplace, be sure to also have chimneys inspected and cleaned to prevent dangers like flue fires.
- Control the internal temperature. Now is the time to adjust automatic thermostats to account for the season’s fluctuations in temperature.
- Get ready for fall fashion. Don’t put the lighter clothing in mothballs just yet, but be sure to have sweaters and jackets at the ready. Layering is the name of the game throughout autumn.
- Be sure you can detect danger. Fall is one of the critical times of the year for checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and changing over their batteries.
Fall Safety Tips for Elderly People
- Prepare for ice and snow. No list of autumn safety tips for seniors would be complete without mentioning the danger of falls. In cooler regions, it’s not unusual to get a preview of the cold, snowy and icy winter weather during the autumn months. Be sure to make shovels, car brushes and salt accessible in the event of an early storm.
- Perform seasonal car checks. If your loved one is still driving, have them look over these safe driving tips for winter to ensure they’re ready for the changing conditions.
- Beware of falling leaves. While colorful leaves are part of the beauty of autumn, they can present a safety hazard. When wet, they can become slippery, as well as hide potentially dangerous obstacles. Be sure to remove them regularly from porches, sidewalks and key walkways for older adults.
- Be mindful of footwear. Non-skid boots and shoes with plenty of traction can help prevent slips and falls in wet or frosty weather, while good waterproof shoes keep feet warm and dry.
Tips for Seniors to Stay Healthy
Here are a few additional tips to follow to stay healthy during this time of year:
- Ward off seasonal illnesses. The frequency and severity of illnesses escalates as the year ends. Hand washing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of fall illness. The Centers for Disease Control recommends washing hands with soap and clean, running water for 20 seconds. Good hydration can also benefit the immune system during cold and flu season.
- Stay social. Between less daylight and more time spent indoors, it’s not uncommon to experience a slump in our mood during the fall, so protect your wellbeing by maintaining social contact and finding appropriate fall activities for seniors. For those worried about elderly parents who are lonely or isolated, consider FirstLight Companion Care Services, to provide company as well as help around the house.
- Take advantage of the harvest. Many healthy – and delicious – fruits and vegetables take center stage this time of year. Adding seasonal produce such as beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, sweet potato, pumpkin, apples, cranberries, eggplant and kale to your diet can help manage diabetes, contribute to heart health and promote a healthy immune system.
Want to learn even more? Use these links for additional fall safety and wellness tips:
Let FirstLight Help You Stay Safe This Fall
If you need help with elderly parents at home this season, these autumn safety tips for seniors can help them enjoy the changes of the fall season in safety and comfort. For those who need a little extra support, FirstLight’s Personal Care Services can provide regular safety checks so you’ll have peace of mind that your loved one is coping at home.
If you have questions about fall safety, wellness or in-home care for older adults, contact FirstLight Home Care for more information!