Posted on
Every winter can be a challenge for senior citizens and others who depend on the support of caregivers to remain comfortably at home with a sense of independence.
The winter of 2024-25 could land on the more challenging side if the Farmers’ Almanac prediction is on target.
“Winter in New England and the Northeast will be stormy with above-normal amounts of winter precipitation and near-to above-normal temperatures,” the journal said. “Snow will be most prevalent over the interior and mountainous terrains, while sleet and rain will be more common near the coast, especially near and along the I-95 corridor.”
Cape Cod winters typically aren’t very snowy, but sleet, freezing rain, and the cold itself are more than enough to add challenges to daily life and necessary trips such as doctor’s visits.
The shorter days and early darkness are a factor too, potentially heightening the risk of falls and giving rise to the seasonal malaise that comes in part from feeling closed in.
These concerns aren’t exclusive to those receiving care or those providing it. They extend to the adult children of seniors and other family members who are worried about parents, often from afar. They need a local partner who will ensure their loved ones remain safe, comfortable, and in good spirits.
The key to weathering winter well for most home care clients is a strong three-way partnership involving those receiving care services, the caregiving agency, and family members who are empowered to help make proactive decisions and help to prevent problems.
“Our most rewarding cases operate as partnerships. The first partnership is with the client. We prioritize their comfort and preferences to support their highest possible quality of life. In many cases, the senior in our care is reliant upon the good stewardship of their adult children. We can be the representative for family that cannot be present daily. Issues like winter home maintenance, home repairs, groceries and other purchasing decisions can be made by family and overseen by your local agency caregivers and case managers,” said Peter Carey, Executive Director of Homecare Choices.
“It is one of many areas where a trusting, three-way partnership results in a big improvement to quality of life. We do this year-round, but it’s especially important that things are addressed promptly and properly in the winter,” he added.
Factors and Challenges to Consider as Winter Approaches
- The short days and long, dark nights can be very difficult for seniors living alone.
- When loved ones do get out, winter conditions increase the risk of falls and other mishaps.
- The children or other family members of seniors may be limited in visiting to help around the house, make deliveries, or simply get the person receiving care out of the house.
- Winter cold, ice, and snow can affect the safety of a property and whether the living environment is safe and comfortable.
- Limited accessibility and power outages from storms can pose dangers.
Some Benefits of Having a Caregiver in the More Challenging Winter Months
- The well-being of loved ones does not have to depend on adult children as much.
- When you have a relationship with a trusted caregiver, they can become your eyes and ears and help you to stay connected as you seek to protect and care for senior loved ones through the winter months.
- Our typical services include companionship, personal care, light housekeeping and meal prep, along with chores and pet care.
- Every Homecare Choices relationship is based on the individual’s unique needs, and we can cover most things on a family’s priority list.
- As care partners to our clients and their families, we can keep an eye on things apart from care that should be addressed and work with family members as an advocate to get things done so problems are avoided.
Those who want to learn more about Homecare Choices and its services may reach out to Executive Director Peter Carey by phone at 508-313-2529, or by email at petercarey@homecarechoices.com. There’s also a contact form on the website and free consultations are offered.