Are you caring for a loved one with memory loss? If so, you may be preparing for the cold winter months that are ahead. Whether you and your loved one look at winter with wonder or would rather do without all of its woes, the coldest months of the season are coming faster than we know it.
Now is a great time to get prepared, plan accordingly and learn as much as you can about health and wellness in winter to keep your loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of memory loss safe, warm and well all season long!
“If you’re caregiving for seniors with memory loss during the winter, it’s important to be prepared for all the situations that may occur,” says Erica Labb, Executive Director of Bridges® by EPOCH at Westford, a memory care assisted living community in Westford, MA.
“From indoor safety hazards to common outdoor risks, inclement winter weather and what to do if your loved one wanders, being prepared is the key to a happier, healthier winter season for those you serve. With the right tips and tools, you can have a winter without many woes and instead enjoy the season that’s ahead.”
Winter Safety for Seniors with Alzheimer’s Disease
If you’re not quite sure where to start when planning for safety for seniors with memory loss during winter, we’re here to help. Consider these indoor and outdoor safety tips that are sure to help you and your loved one stay well.
Indoor Safety
Even if you’ve got no place to go during winter, it’s important to make sure your home is in tip-top shape for yourself and your loved one with memory loss. Don’t forget to plan and be prepared for these important points.
- Prepare for Heating. Cold temperatures are rising! Have you checked your carbon monoxide detectors yet? It’s important to make sure they are in working order, as they can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Remember that space heaters should not be used in the home of a loved one with memory problems, as this can increase the risk of fires, and as electric blankets can cause burns.
If your loved one with memory loss tends to fidget with the thermometer, consider purchasing a cover so they can not alter the temperature in the home.
- Gather Emergency Supplies. You never know when bad weather will hit, which means it’s important to consider your loved one’s health and nutrition if you can’t get to the store. Prepare ahead of time with canned goods, bottled water and shelf-stable meals.
During this time, it’s also important to talk to your loved one’s doctor about getting extra doses of their medications as well as vitamins that can help to keep them healthy while protecting them from the various illnesses of winter.
- Be Ready for Winter Storms. Daily tasks can be difficult when winter storms arise. Be ready ahead of time with a stock of batteries, flashlights, a radio and important documents handy. This can help you and your loved one with memory loss remain safe and calm should they be needed.
Outdoor Safety
If the weather outside is frightful, be sure to keep these important winter-weather considerations in mind!
- Prepare for Snow and Ice Hazards. Winter is a prime time for slips and falls, especially for older adults with dementia who may not realize there is ice on the ground. Be sure they wear non-slip shoes and clear all walkways prior to going outdoors. Even if you don’t think it’s icy, there is still a possibility of black ice.
- Dress Warmly. When going outdoors, remind loved ones with memory loss to dress for warmth. Although it can be tempting to think you’ll only be outside a short while, layers, hats, gloves and non-slip boots are always a good idea for outdoor activities. This can be an area of trouble for those with memory loss, so be sure to help them choose the correct outfits for the weather.
- Consider Frostbite and Hypothermia. Cold weather brings worries about frostbite and hypothermia, which may not be noticed as vividly by those with symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Be sure you’re educated about its side effects, symptoms, what a normal body temperature should be, and more to help people living with dementia stay safe.
- Prevent Wandering. People with Alzheimer’s disease may be prone to wandering, especially as their disease progresses. This is why it’s so important for caregivers to prevent wandering as much as possible. Learn more about how to prevent this here.
Would you and your loved one benefit from some additional support and advice? Contact the team at Bridges® by EPOCH at Westford today.
Comprehensive Memory Care
Bridges® by EPOCH at Westford delivers highly specialized memory care assisted living for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Our resident-centered approach focuses on providing dignity, purpose and moments of joy in daily life for those in all stages of the disease. We offer a wellness-focused lifestyle that centers around a resident’s current skills and abilities, not those that have been lost to dementia.
Life-Enriching Programs
Our team members take an active role in getting to know each resident on a personal level to deliver programming that is meaningful to them. We account for the preferences, interests, needs and abilities of our residents to connect with them and encourage their involvement in daily life and boost self-esteem.
Warm, Residential Atmosphere
Featuring a stunning residential design, every inch of our community has been designed to benefit those with memory loss. Attributes such as soft colors, directional cues and aromatherapy create a soothing and secure environment where residents feel comfortable, safe and at home.
Bridges® by EPOCH is New England’s largest stand-alone memory care assisted living provider.
Contact us today to learn more.